“Here’s another reason you should try to get a good night’s sleep: Slumber can help keep you cancer-free, says a new study. Researchers at Stanford University Medical Center found that disrupted sleep changes hormone levels in the body, making it more vulnerable to some kinds of cancer. One hormone produced by the brain during sleep is melatonin, which helps prevent cancer by mopping up cell-damaging compounds called free radicals. But when sleep rhythms are disturbed, less melatonin is made. Another hormone impeded by sleep deprivation is cortisol, which helps regulate immune-system activity. ‘Although having cancer might be something to lose sleep over,’ Stanford’s Dr. David Spiegel says, ‘we’d rather help people regain the sleep and lose the cancer.’ ”
—The Week, 10/17/03
Remember, studies show that massage can help improve sleep patterns and increase melatonin levels, helping you get that good night’s sleep you need! Pleasant dreams. . . .
