Sleep and Immunity: How Rest Can Strengthen Your Body’s Defenses
In a recent interview with journalist Marwa Shatla on the “Al-Bayt” program, Dr. Magdy badran, a member of the egyptian Society for Allergy and Immunology, emphasized the critical role of sleep and rest in bolstering the immune system.Dr. Badran highlighted how poor daily habits, such as excessive screen time, can undermine our body’s natural defenses.
“Many people don’t realize that screens, whether television or mobile phones, have negative effects on the immune system,” Dr. Badran said during the interview, which aired on Al-Nas channel on Thursday. “Staying up late, especially in front of screens, negatively impacts our ability too sleep well, which in turn weakens our immunity.”
The Science of Sleep and Immunity
Dr.Badran explained that sleeping in a dark environment and allowing the body to rest during the night are key factors in strengthening the immune system. “When we sleep well, this gives the body an prospect to recover and activate killer cells that attack viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells,” he said.“Thus, sleep is not just physical rest; it is indeed a vital process for promoting health.”
He also noted that inadequate sleep or sleeping in an uncomfortable environment, such as one with light or noise, can increase the risk of catching colds and infections. “People who sleep less than seven hours a day are more susceptible to contracting viruses and colds,” Dr.badran said. “Their immunity is lower by up to 40% compared to those who get enough sleep.”
Practical Tips for Boosting Immunity
Dr. Badran offered practical advice to help improve immune function. “Correct ventilation contributes to reducing the concentration of viruses and bacteria in the air,” he explained.“Opening windows several times during the day helps improve air quality and reduces the chances of infection.”
He also stressed the importance of dressing appropriately for the whether, especially during winter, to keep the body warm and prevent viruses from entering through cold areas. For young children under two years old, Dr. Badran recommended that they sleep with their mother, as this helps keep them warm and protects them from colds.
As the winter season approaches, Dr. Badran’s insights serve as a timely reminder of the importance of prioritizing rest and creating a healthy sleep environment. By making small adjustments to daily habits, individuals can substantially enhance their immune system and reduce the risk of illness.
For more health tips and expert advice, stay tuned to World Today News.
**Headline:**
**”unlocking the Power of Sleep: An Expert Conversation on How Rest Strengthens Immunity”**
**Introductory Paragraph:**
In a recent exclusive interview, the Senior Editor of *World Today News* sat down with Dr. Magdy Badran, a renowned member of the Egyptian Society for Allergy and Immunology, to discuss the critical connection between sleep and immunity. Dr. Badran emphasized how poor daily habits, such as excessive screen time and inadequate rest, can weaken our body’s natural defenses. As winter approaches, this conversation serves as a timely reminder of the importance of prioritizing sleep and creating a healthy sleep environment to bolster immunity and reduce the risk of illness.
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### **The Role of Sleep in Strengthening Immunity**
**Senior Editor:** dr. Badran,thank you for joining us today. Your insights on the relationship between sleep and immunity have been incredibly eye-opening. To start, can you explain why sleep is so crucial for our immune system?
**Dr. Badran:** thank you for having me. Sleep is not just about resting physically; it’s a vital process that allows our body to recover and activate key immune functions.When we sleep well, our body produces more killer cells—cells that attack viruses, bacteria, and even cancer cells. Without adequate sleep, these processes are compromised, leaving us more vulnerable to infections.
**Senior Editor:** That’s interesting. Can you elaborate on how poor sleep specifically impacts our immunity?
**Dr. Badran:** Certainly. Studies have shown that peopel who sleep less than seven hours a day are up to 40% more susceptible to viruses and colds. This is because inadequate sleep weakens our immune response. additionally, sleeping in an uncomfortable environment, such as one with light or noise, can further increase the risk of catching infections.
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### **The Impact of Screen Time on Sleep and Immunity**
**Senior Editor:** You mentioned in your interview on Al-Nas channel that excessive screen time,whether from TVs or mobile phones,can negatively affect our immune system.Can you explain how this happens?
**Dr. Badran:** Absolutely. screens emit blue light, which can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. When we stay up late in front of screens, our body’s natural sleep cycle is disrupted. This not only affects the quality of our sleep but also weakens our immunity over time. It’s a vicious cycle: poor sleep leads to a weaker immune system,which in turn makes it harder to fight off infections.
**Senior Editor:** That’s a powerful reminder to disconnect from screens before bed. Are there any specific tips you’d recommend to minimize the impact of screen time on sleep?
**Dr. Badran:** Yes,definitely. I recommend reducing screen time at least an hour before bed. Using blue light filters on devices or wearing glasses that block blue light can also help. Creating a dark and quiet sleep environment is crucial for promoting restful sleep and strengthening immunity.
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### **Practical Tips for Boosting Immunity**
**Senior Editor:** Beyond sleep, are there other practical steps people can take to strengthen their immune system, especially as we head into winter?
**Dr. Badran:** Certainly. One simple yet effective tip is to ensure proper ventilation in your home. Opening windows several times a day helps improve air quality and reduces the concentration of viruses and bacteria in the air. Dressing appropriately for the weather is also important, especially during winter, to keep the body warm and prevent viruses from entering through cold areas.
**Senior Editor:** You also mentioned the importance of co-sleeping for young children under two years old. Can you expand on that?
**Dr. Badran:** yes, for young children, sleeping with their mother helps keep them warm and protected from colds.The mother’s body heat provides a natural barrier against the cold,which is especially important for infants whose immune systems are still developing.
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### **Conclusion: Prioritizing Rest for a Healthier Future**
**Senior Editor:** dr. Badran, your insights have been incredibly valuable. As we wrap up, what final message would you like to leave our readers with?
**Dr. Badran:** I would like to emphasize the importance of prioritizing rest and creating a healthy sleep environment. Small adjustments, like reducing screen time, ensuring proper ventilation, and dressing warmly, can make a substantial difference in strengthening your immune system. Remember, sleep is not just about resting; it’s a vital process that promotes overall health and well-being.
**Senior Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Badran. Your advice is a timely reminder for all of us to prioritize our sleep and take steps to protect our health this winter.
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**Closing Paragraph:**
For more health tips and expert advice, stay tuned to *World Today News*. Don’t forget to follow us for updates on how to maintain a strong immune system and live a healthier life.