Q I can't sleep well at night. Is this related to dementia? How should I improve my sleep?
A The brain's waste products are cleared during sleep. If lack of sleep persists, this process is disrupted and dementia risk rises. A regular sleep schedule and 7-8 hours of sleep are important.
Detailed Answer
During sleep, the brain's glymphatic system is activated and washes away the amyloid and tau protein debris associated with Alzheimer's. Chronic lack of sleep impairs this cleaning function and is linked over the long term to cognitive impairment. If you have sleep apnea, getting it treated is directly connected to brain health.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
When sleep is insufficient or shallow, the heart blood (心血) cannot properly nourish the brain. Replenishing the qi and blood of the heart and spleen with formulas such as Guibi-tang or Cheonwangbosim-dan improves sleep quality, and as a result daytime concentration and memory also revive.
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