A team of scientists from the University of California has discovered a mechanism that explains how brain waves during deep sleep at night can regulate blood sugar the next day. Results of the study published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine.
The study involved 600 people – during sleep, the scientists collected data on the activity of brain waves during different sleep periods, the next day the authors took a blood test to determine the level of sugar.
As it turns out, the powerful brain waves generated during deep sleep lead to activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which reduces stress levels. This affects the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which helps absorb glucose from the blood and prevents a spike in blood sugar.
Researchers say this is an important discovery: sleep is a modifiable factor that could be used as an adjunct treatment for people with high blood sugar or type II diabetes.
Deep sleep or non-REM sleep is the third and fourth stages of sleep. During this period, pulse and respiration are at their lowest level, brain waves slow down, muscles and eyes relax. This phenomenon is also known as the “recovery” phase of sleep: tissues are regenerated and immunity is strengthened.
Former Medics to solvethat evening exercises are better for blood sugar control.