Scientists have determined that a consistent pattern of sleep and activity might be linked to a slower rate of biological aging. The findings from their research have been published in the scientific journal JAMA Network Open.
The study involved 207 middle-aged and older adults residing in Baltimore. For a period of one week, participants wore specialized wristbands that recorded sleep parameters, periods of rest, and daytime activity levels. The data gathered was then correlated with epigenetic age, a metric that indicates the speed at which an organism is aging at the DNA level.
The analysis revealed that individuals exhibiting a more pronounced and stable circadian rhythm experienced a slower rate of epigenetic aging. In simpler terms, a clear distinction between day and night in terms of activity levels, along with maintaining a consistent routine from day to day, contributed to slowing down the aging processes. Conversely, a chaotic schedule, nighttime awakenings, and drastic changes in sleep duration were associated with accelerated aging.
The study’s authors point out that, at this stage, only a correlation has been identified, not a cause-and-effect relationship. Nevertheless, their conclusions highlight the significance of a regular sleep-wake cycle as a potential indicator of biological aging and a promising area for the prevention of age-related changes.
Previously, physician Govtva warned about the dangers of sleeping with an open window. According to the specialist, sleeping with an open window during the warmer months is a common practice for many, but in certain circumstances, it can pose a health risk.
Such an action can even lead to the exacerbation of cardiovascular diseases. Individuals with pre-existing health issues run the risk of a nighttime blood pressure spike, an episode of angina, or even a heart attack, particularly if the room temperature drops below 15 degrees Celsius, she clarified.
The medical professional also noted that individuals suffering from allergies, asthma, or chronic respiratory diseases should exercise particular caution during nighttime ventilation. You can read more details on this matter in the article by the Public News Service.
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