A recent study suggests that delayed dreaming could be associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The findings, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia on January 27, highlight the potential connection between longer periods before entering REM sleep and the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s.
During REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, individuals experience vivid dreams, and memory processing takes place. Experts believe this stage plays a crucial role in cognitive health, and the study sheds light on how sleep patterns may impact brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s.
The research, conducted at the China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing, followed 128 participants, with an average age of 71. Half of the participants had Alzheimer’s, a third had mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and the remaining group had normal cognition. Researchers monitored the participants’ brain activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns.
The study found that individuals with Alzheimer’s tended to have a longer delay before entering REM sleep, with those in the delayed REM group showing higher levels of amyloid and tau proteins—markers of Alzheimer’s. Additionally, these individuals had lower levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein associated with brain health. However, the exact nature of the relationship between delayed REM sleep and Alzheimer’s remains unclear. It is uncertain whether poor sleep worsens the condition or if cognitive decline disrupts sleep patterns.
Senior study author, Dr. Yue Leng from UCSF, suggested that delayed REM sleep may interfere with memory consolidation, a critical process for learning and memory. While researchers are still investigating the exact mechanisms, it is clear that disrupted REM sleep could be contributing to Alzheimer’s-like brain changes.
To improve sleep quality, experts recommend setting a consistent bedtime, avoiding screen time before bed, and refraining from large meals or alcohol late at night. Dr. Cheng emphasized that while sleep trackers can help monitor sleep patterns, they shouldn’t be overly relied upon, as their accuracy can be questionable.
In conclusion, establishing a healthy sleep routine is key to promoting good sleep quality, which could, in turn, support brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. If sleep disturbances or other cognitive issues arise, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.
Read more:
- Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
- The Mysteries of Alzheimer’s: Understanding its Causes
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