09/07/2025
Scientists found that the brain literally starts eating itself when it doesn't get enough sleep.
New research reveals a troubling link between chronic sleep deprivation and long-term brain damage.
Scientists studying sleep-deprived mice discovered that prolonged lack of sleep causes the brain’s immune cells—astrocytes and microglia—to go into overdrive.
Astrocytes, which normally prune away unnecessary synapses, began breaking down more brain connections and debris, while microglia, responsible for clearing damaged cells, showed heightened activity. Although these processes may initially serve a protective role, overactivation of these cells has been linked to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
These findings shed light on why chronic sleep loss is increasingly associated with heightened risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Sleep is a vital state for brain maintenance—it clears toxic waste, consolidates memory, and reinforces crucial neural connections.
Without it, the brain's restorative systems falter, impairing attention, memory, and emotional stability. As Alzheimer’s deaths have surged 50% since 1999, understanding sleep’s role in brain health has never been more critical. This research underscores the urgent need to prioritize sleep not just for daily function, but as a safeguard for long-term neurological health.
This is a powerful reminder: your brain needs sleep to survive and thrive. 🛌🧠
🔗 Full article: https://www.sciencealert.com/your-brain-starts-eating-itself-due-to-lack-of-sleep
