THE BEST SLEEPING POSITION TO PROTECT YOUR BRAIN

Nothing feels better than waking up refreshed and invigorated after a sound night’s sleep. And now there’s one more benefit to chalk up to good sleeping—in particular, your sleep position—helping your brain eliminate buildup of harmful chemicals and the plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Mice were placed in various sleep positions and scanned with MRIs to review the performance of their glymphatic pathways (which remove harmful waste). It was clear that those sleeping in a lateral position, on their sides, had the most efficient removal of metabolic waste buildup.

Maiken Nedergaard, researcher for the University of Rochester, notes, “The study therefore adds further support to the concept that sleep subserves a distinct biological function of sleep and that is to ‘clean up’ the mess that accumulates while we are awake.” This is especially of interest for those with dementia such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological issues, which are often linked to sleep disturbances.

Learn more about how sleep clears the brain, and contact Responsive Home Care for help and respite care if sleeping issues are affecting you or the seniors in your life.