Recent studies have highlighted the strong link between good sleep and brain health. Experts in the UAE are urging residents to focus on improving sleep habits, emphasizing the long-term benefits for mental and physical well-being.
Alexandra Zatarain, Co-Founder and VP of Brand and Marketing at Eight Sleep, explains: “In regions like the UAE and GCC, where irregular sleep patterns are common, prioritizing quality sleep is critical for brain health and slowing down the brain’s ageing process.
Sleep isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for a balanced life and longevity. How well we sleep today shapes how sharp and resilient our minds will be in the future.”
UAE Sleep Statistics: A Wake-Up Call
A survey conducted this year found that 40% of UAE residents sleep less than six hours a night, mainly due to stress. Research from the University of California, San Francisco, revealed that poor sleep can lead to nearly three additional years of brain ageing.
The study followed 589 participants over 15 years and found those with multiple poor sleep habits had brains that appeared 2.6 years older than their peers.
The Impact of Poor Sleep on Health
Doctors warn that insufficient sleep can harm both brain and body. Dr. Rajesh Chaudhary, Specialist Neurologist at Aster Hospital Sharjah, explains: “Poor sleep accelerates cognitive decline and increases the risk of neurodegenerative conditions. Deep sleep is essential for brain restoration, clearing waste, and maintaining youthfulness.”
Supporting this, Dr. Humam Schakaki, Consultant Pulmonologist at Burjeel Medical City, adds: “Deep sleep is crucial for immune health, hormone balance, and cognitive function. Without it, people experience reduced alertness, impaired judgment, and weakened immunity.”
How to Improve Sleep Quality
Dr. Rajesh emphasizes the importance of maintaining good sleep hygiene for optimal rest:
- Stick to a schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily to regulate your internal clock.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment: Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
- Limit screen time: Reduce blue light exposure in the evening, as it suppresses melatonin, the hormone that prepares your body for sleep.
- Adopt calming pre-sleep routines: Activities like reading or meditation can help relax your mind.
- Avoid stimulants: Skip caffeine and nicotine close to bedtime.
- Exercise earlier in the day: Physical activity supports restorative sleep when done in the morning or afternoon.
Real-Life Examples
Dr. Humam shared cases illustrating how poor sleep disrupts lives:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A young male with high blood pressure unresponsive to medication was diagnosed with sleep apnea. Treatment with a CPAP machine helped stabilize his blood pressure without additional medication.
- Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): A 50-year-old woman suffered from a crawling sensation in her legs, disrupting her sleep. Alongside medication and improved sleep hygiene, her sleep improved dramatically, leaving her energized during the day.
The Role of Technology in Better Sleep
Alexandra Zatarain shared findings from Eight Sleep’s study on sleep pods. “Participants using our sleep pods reported significant improvements in sleep quality, with cardiovascular benefits similar to 12 weeks of exercise. Sleep isn’t just a passive activity—it’s a tool we can optimize to improve our health and well-being.”
By prioritizing sleep, UAE residents can protect their brain health, enhance focus, and boost overall well-being. Better sleep is not just a dream. It’s a necessity for a healthier future.
