Intro to sleep deprivation

Besides proper nutrition and exercise, proper sleep is necessary for human beings to be healthy. Sleep deprivation and things that may lead to lead to it like working the night-shift, can lead to mental complications. One complication is Alzheimer's disease. Abnormal shifts in insulin levels can increase the risk of Alzheimers disease. These abonormal shifts are common in people who either work really late and those who are sleep-deprived. Insulin helps the brain with learning and memory. A lack of insulin can cause inflammation in the brain which is a main cause of Alzheimer's disease. Another complication is learning problems. Students who spend all night studying instead of getting a good night's sleep are most likely to not retain what they studied. It is better to study during the day because you have more time and have more energy than in the night. A lack of sleep also affects mood. According to the article day workers have more serotonin (important for mood stability) than night workers. This means that if you work the night shift you are most likely to get depressed.

Sleep is a necessary part of life. Without it we cannot function properly. Even though there are people who go for days without sleep, they are barely able to do anything. As a person who does not get enough sleep everyday, I can say that in some of my classes it sometimes difficult to pay attention to the teacher because I zone out from time to time. Other times when I am well rested I pay more attention in class, and I feel more positive about everything. I'm also concerned that I may develop Alheimer's disease at an early age if I don't manage my time better. Also since sleep affects insulin levels, a sleep deprived person can develop diabetes.

In order to help those who lose sleep, I think that there should be a day dedicated to just sleep. Also there should be more funding towards Alzheimer's disease research. If funding goes to Alzheimer's research then a cure may be found. Also there should be laws that limit how many hours a person can work overtime, so that they will have a more stable mood. Also parents should encourage their children to do their homework as soon as they come home, so that they will be well rested for the next day. College students should do the same when they have breaks in between classes.