While most people focus on skin care to slow down aging, the importance of “brain care” is often overlooked. A new study suggests that poor sleep quality may play a role in accelerating brain aging, highlighting the role of sleep in maintaining cognitive health. This research from the American Academy of Neurology, published in the journal Neurology, links sleep disturbances to increased brain aging – sometimes adding up to three extra years to brain age.

The study followed 589 adults over the age of 40 over the past few years and evaluated their sleep patterns. brain healthInitially, participants completed a questionnaire on sleep quality, reporting problems such as trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Five years later they repeated the survey. Finally, fifteen years later, researchers used brain scans to assess participants’ “brain age,” a measure of brain shrinkage associated with cognitive decline.

The results showed a clear link between sleep problems and accelerated brain aging. The participants who reported two or three sleep problems had their brains aging about 1.6 years faster than those with only one problem. This effect was even more pronounced in people who had three or more sleep problems, whose brains appeared to age faster by 2.6 years.

Sleep problems that may seem minor — like mild insomnia or frequent awakenings — have a cumulative effect on brain health. According to researchers, these issues can accelerate brain shrinkage, leading to memory problems, slower processing and other cognitive issues commonly associated with aging.

Dr. Christine Yaffe, a researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, and a member of the American Academy of Neurology, emphasized the importance of addressing sleep problems early on. He said, “Our findings highlight the importance of consistent sleep for long-term brain health. Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as keeping a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and using relaxation techniques, All can support cognitive health.”

The study also suggests lifestyle changes that may benefit brain health over time. Experts recommend a regular sleep schedule along with exercise, limited caffeine, and relaxation practices to improve sleep quality. Researchers believe these adjustments may help slow the pace of brain aging and support cognitive function throughout life.

Dr. Clemens Cavallis, co-author of the study, said, “Our research indicates that poor sleep may delay brain aging by three additional years, even by middle age. The findings are related to sleep problems. Emphasizes the need for early intervention in the management of brain health.”

As sleep emerges as an important factor in brain health, experts urge people to take sleep issues seriously and work toward healthy sleep habits. The study points to the significant impact that a good night’s sleep can have not only on overall health but also on maintaining brain function and preventing premature cognitive decline.

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