Chronic lack of sleep linked to Alzheimer's

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Jun 17, 2015

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Chronic lack of sleep linked to Alzheimer's

Scientists are now realizing that lack of sleep is wreaking havoc on our brains, which drain out toxic waste when we're asleep.

A stock photo of a woman sleeping on a text book.

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Sleep scientists working on how light affects sleep say they have determined the neurotransmitter that keeps us awake.

Scientists now say that it's crucial to get 6 - 8 hours sleep to stay healthy.

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Scientists are now realizing that lack of sleep is wreaking havoc on our brains, which drain out toxic waste when we're asleep.

With our crazy modern lives, many of us sleep far less than the recommended 6 to 8. But scientists are now realizing that it's wreaking havoc on our brains, which drain out toxic waste when we're asleep.

Not enough sleep means some of that waste stays in our brains - and that's now believed to be connected to diseases like Alzheimer's.

Matthew Walker, professor of neuroscience and psychology at UC Berkeley, explained the findings of his latest research.