How Poor Sleep May Age Your Brain and How You Can Avoid It

Recent scientific research has shown that poor sleep can do more than just cause tiredness; it may actually contribute to faster brain aging. A study published in 2024 in Nature Communications found that individuals who regularly experienced poor sleep showed signs of accelerated brain aging, with their brains appearing up to two years older than their actual age.

Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, also observed that people in midlife who struggle with issues such as difficulty falling asleep or waking up too early tend to experience faster brain atrophy, which is associated with an increased risk of dementia later in life. Beyond its effects on the brain, sleep deprivation weakens the immune system, affects mood, reduces focus and memory, and increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart conditions.

This is why high-quality sleep is essential for both the body and mind. Sleep is not just a time for rest; it’s when your body repairs itself and your brain clears away harmful waste. A night of deep, uninterrupted sleep strengthens memory, stabilises mood, supports emotional balance and helps you wake up ready to face the day.

To improve the quality of your sleep, small daily habits can make a significant difference:

• Try to keep a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same times each day.
• Avoid screens and blue light before bedtime, and create a quiet, dark and cool sleeping environment.
• Stay clear of caffeine and heavy meals at night, and instead wind down with calming activities such as reading, prayer or light stretching.
• Regular physical activity during the day also helps promote more restful sleep.

Interestingly, research also indicates that faith and community may contribute to better sleep. A recent study published in the Journal of Religion and Health suggests that lower stress levels, emotional support and the inner peace gained through spiritual practices all help promote deeper, calmer sleep.

When we bring our worries, fears and stresses to God, our minds can rest more easily. The peace that faith brings quiets the thoughts that often keep us awake, allowing true rest to begin. When you rest in God’s presence, both your body and spirit can finally recharge.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges that disrupt your peace, we invite you to join us on Tuesdays at the Universal Church for special meetings focused on health, well-being and balance. In these services, you will learn how to care for your body and mind while discovering how faith can strengthen every area of your life, not excluding but complementing medical treatment.

We are currently holding the “7 Tuesdays of the Lord’s Prayer.” Click here to learn more about it and join us at your nearest Universal Church.

Disclaimer: The UCKG HelpCentre’s spiritual advice is to be seen as a complement to the scientifically proven treatment you may be receiving. The UCKG HelpCentre does not claim to heal people but believes that God can through the power of faith. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Event: 7 Tuesdays of the Lord’s Prayer
Day and time: Tuesdays, from 16 September to 28 October at 7.30pm (also at 7am, 10am and 3pm)
Location: Your local Universal Church

Sources: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9084918/

https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2024/10/428701/poor-sleep-midlife-linked-faster-brain-atrophy

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10737210/