Welcome to Our Weekly Magazine

Become the best version of yourself Sign-up for our weekly magazine.

Become the best version of yourself today.

We send a weekly roundup of our best work and highlight standout community members. It's free, and you can always leave if it's not your jam.

Deep Sleep Flushes Out Waste From the Brain

Deep sleep plays a crucial role in cleaning waste from the brain through the glymphatic system. Specifically, norepinephrine emerged as a key molecular conductor of this process. Scientists discovered that during deep sleep, the brainstem releases waves of norepinephrine approximately every 50 seconds. This causes blood vessels to contract and create a rhythmic flow that helps flush out toxic waste products.

The research team, led by Maiken Nedergaard, found that common sleep medications might actually interfere with this cleaning process. Mice treated with zolpidem showed 50% lower norepinephrine waves and a 30% reduced fluid transport compared to naturally sleeping mice. While these findings were primarily observed in mice, researchers believe the same mechanisms likely apply to humans, as they share a similar glymphatic system with mice. Overall, the study suggests that understanding how norepinephrine drives brain cleaning could lead to better approaches for achieving restorative sleep and potentially preventing neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Read the science here.

Image by Silver Place / iStock

See medical disclaimer below.

The ideas expressed here are solely the opinions of the author and are not researched or verified by AGEIST LLC, or anyone associated with AGEIST LLC. This material should not be construed as medical advice or recommendation, it is for informational use only. We encourage all readers to discuss with your qualified practitioners the relevance of the application of any of these ideas to your life. The recommendations contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before starting any new treatment or stopping any treatment that has been prescribed for you by your physician or other qualified health provider. Please call your doctor or 911 immediately if you think you may have a medical or psychiatric emergency.

Taylor Marks
Taylor Marks is a certified holistic health coach and professionally trained chef from The Institute of Culinary Education. Her passions include the latest research in health science, culinary arts, holistic wellness, and guiding others towards feeling their best.