In this expert talk, Dr. Ashish Kumar, Senior Neurosurgeon Consultant from Delhi, shares valuable insights on a topic that plays a crucial role in our daily lives—sleep. It highlights key biological and lifestyle factors that influence sleep quality.
Let’s begins by emphasizing the importance of sleep-in maintaining health and relieving fatigue. However, when sleep is disturbed, there can be several underlying causes.
As we grow older, our sleep duration naturally decreases. Sleep is primarily controlled by the brain, particularly by regions like the hypothalamus and the suprachiasmatic nucleus. The hypothalamus plays a central role in managing our sleep cycle. Like other organs, the brain also undergoes shrinkage and functional decline with age, reducing its ability to regulate sleep effectively.
One of the key chemicals responsible for inducing sleep is melatonin. When melatonin is present in the right amount, it promotes restful sleep. With age, however, melatonin production decreases, making it harder to fall or stay asleep. Another significant factor is light exposure. The amount, duration, and intensity of sunlight entering our eyes helps the brain recognize when it’s time to sleep.
Dr. Ashish also explains the concept of the biological clock—an internal mechanism regulated by multiple brain centers including those for sleep and wakefulness. This clock aligns our body with day and night cycles.
Genetics also play a role in shaping sleep patterns. In addition, environmental elements like location, occupation, and climate can affect sleep. Among these, natural sunlight exposure is especially critical, as it directly influences sleep regulation through the eyes.
He also points out that many people feel sleepy after eating a heavy meal, while lighter meals tend to support better sleep. The type, quantity, and timing of meals all influence how well we sleep.
Dr. Ashish adds that men’s brains tend to shrink faster than women’s with age, which may lead to more frequent or earlier sleep issues in men.
Finally, lifestyle habits have a major impact on sleep. Stress, alcohol consumption, smoking before bed, long drives, and excessive screen time can all interfere with sleep quality. Positive habits and mindful choices are key to good sleep.
In summary, Dr. Ashish discusses how the brain regulates sleep, the role of melatonin, the biological clock, and how age, genetics, environment, and lifestyle all influence sleep quality.
Disclaimer – The information in this blog is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All Content including text & images contained is for general information purposes only. Ceragem makes no representation and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information.
Informs viewers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the blog belong solely to Dr. Ashish Kumar Shrivastav in his personal capacity. The views expressed are his own and do not necessarily represent the views of Ceragem India Pvt. Ltd.