Study indicates possible link between lack of sleep and Alzheimer's disease

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - An estimated $5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease and a new study suggests a link between it and not getting enough sleep. The health benefits of sleep are well-known. It's good for the body and mind. Sacrificing sleep could be detrimental, according to a preliminary study. The findings published in the journal "Science Translational Medicine" suggest the loss of one night's sleep in healthy young men, increased levels of tau protein in their blood, compared to getting uninterrupted sleep. Studies have shown higher levels of tau protein in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. In this study, researchers found that men who were not allowed to sleep had an average 17% increase of tau in their blood. Researchers caution that the study is small and inconclusive and acknowledged they were not able to determine what the increased levels might mean. However, the study shows the need for further investigation. While research is not yet conclusive, certain lifestyle choices, such as physical activity and diet, may also help support brain health and prevent Alzheimer's.