Counsel #14 — Sleep Shields Health

Picture: Counsel #14 — Sleep Shields HealthCWe 121.1

Consistently sacrificing sleep—whether for late-night studying or socializing—can have a direct impact on your respiratory health by lowering respiratory motor output. Over time, this may lead to reduced lung capacity, increased breathing difficulties, and a diminished ability to clear mucus when you’re sick.CWe 121.2

Sleep deprivation also weakens the immune system, decreasing antibody production needed to fight infections. Research shows that getting fewer than 7 hours of sleep per night makes you three times more likely to catch a cold compared to those who sleep 8 hours or more. Even if vaccinated, lack of sleep can diminish the body’s immune response, leaving you more vulnerable to viral infections. Sleep is essential for supporting the body’s defenses against illness and for maintaining optimal oxygen saturation levels. Far more than simply resting, sleep is a vital component of overall health, and it’s our body’s natural line of defense.^{[132]https://www.adventistfaith.com/media/recorder/optimize-your-health-with-habits-supporting-good-sleep}CWe 121.3

“I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalms 139:14 NIVCWe 121.4

“In order to have good blood, we must breathe well. Full, deep inspirations of pure air, which fill the lungs with oxygen, purify the blood…A good respiration soothes the nerves; it stimulates the appetite and renders digestion more perfect; and it induces sound, refreshing sleep.” Ellen White in The Ministry of Healing, p. 84CWe 121.5

Reflect: Have you noticed a correlation between your sleep and your body’s ability to fight sickness?CWe 121.6