Research suggests disrupted sleep may impair the brain’s ability to clear toxins, potentially increasing dementia risk, though scientists say more evidence is needed in humans.
Scientists say disrupted sleep could hinder the brain’s natural “waste disposal” system, allowing toxic proteins to accumulate and potentially raising the risk of dementia.
The process, known as the glymphatic system, clears harmful substances such as amyloid beta (Aβ), a protein linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Research in mice suggests the system is most active during sleep, flushing toxins out via cerebrospinal fluid. While its exact function in humans remains debated, evidence shows that even a single night without sleep can increase Aβ in brain regions tied to memory.
Sleep disorders like apnea and insomnia, which cause long-term sleep disruption, have been associated with higher dementia risk. Studies indicate that treating sleep apnea may improve toxin clearance, but the impact of addressing insomnia remains unclear.
Researchers caution that while good sleep supports brain health, more studies are needed to confirm whether improving sleep can directly prevent dementia. Ongoing trials are examining how sleep treatments, including drugs targeting sleep regulation, might influence toxin levels.