In 1964, 17-year-old Randy Gardner famously stayed awake for over 11 days as part of a science fair experiment. During this time, he experienced severe cognitive and physical symptoms, including memory lapses, hallucinations and paranoia. Although he recovered fully, the Guinness Book of Records stopped accepting entries for sleep deprivation in 1997 due to the associated health risks.
However, even a single night of poor sleep can impair brain function. The brain performs essential restorative tasks during sleep, including waste removal via the glymphatic system, memory consolidation in the neocortex, and emotional regulation during REM sleep. Non-REM sleep stages allow the brain to rest, with slower heart rates and relaxed muscles, while REM sleep activates brain regions like the amygdala and hippocampus—key for memory and creativity.
Sleep deprivation affects several brain functions. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and problem-solving, becomes less effective, leading to reduced attention span, impaired judgement and slower reaction times. Emotionally, the overactive amygdala makes it harder to contextualise feelings, and memory consolidation is disrupted.
Long-term sleep deprivation has more serious consequences. Chronic poor sleep is linked to increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, as the brain fails to clear beta amyloid proteins effectively. According to the Sleep Foundation, even one night of sleep loss can raise beta amyloid levels, and up to 15% of Alzheimer’s cases may be attributable to sleep issues.
Given the importance of sleep for cognitive and emotional health, optimising sleep conditions is crucial. Swedish bedmaker Hästens, crafting beds since 1852, advocates for quality sleep to enhance performance and wellbeing. Their handcrafted beds, made from natural materials, aim to support better sleep, and by extension, better brain health.
