Why does sleep deprivation weaken the immune system?

Sleep deprivation weakens the immune system because the body’s immune cells and protective proteins renew themselves during rest. Sleep is not merely a period of inactivity but an active phase in which the immune system reorganizes and strengthens. Sleep deprivation weakens immunity as hormones like melatonin and growth hormone, secreted during sleep, support the production of white blood cells that fight infections. When sleep is insufficient, this cycle is interrupted, reducing both the number and effectiveness of immune cells. Studies show that people who sleep less than six hours per night are significantly more likely to contract viral infections.

How sleep deprivation weakens the immune system

The immune system includes components such as lymphocytes, antibodies, and cytokines. During sleep, cytokine production increases, and these molecules control inflammation and activate disease-fighting cells. When sleep is restricted, cytokine levels decrease, leaving the body less capable of responding to infection. Additionally, stress hormones like cortisol rise with lack of sleep, suppressing immune activity. Chronic sleep deprivation leads to higher rates of colds, flu, and immune-related skin problems. Thus, sleeplessness not only causes fatigue but also slows the body’s defense mechanisms.

Sleep deprivation weakens immunity because the body cannot complete its repair and recovery cycles. Sleep strengthens immune memory, and even vaccine responses have been proven to vary according to sleep quality. Regular, sufficient sleep is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect against illness. By maintaining a healthy sleep routine suited to one’s biological rhythm, individuals support the natural balance of the immune system. Otherwise, both short-term infection risks and long-term conditions such as chronic fatigue, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders become more likely. / 2025-11-09 02:34:23