NIOSH Training for Nurses on Shift Work and Long Work Hours

Your Body is Busy During Sleep

Researchers theorize that as you sleep, many vital processes occur. Your body is repairing tissues, fighting off pathogens, and forming memories of experiences that occurred during the day. If your body does not get enough sleep, your health suffers. For example,

• Immune functioning is compromised.
• Insulin/blood glucose system (i.e., metabolism) is disrupted, promoting insulin resistance.
• Appetite hormones become unbalanced, promoting overeating and obesity.
• Mental functioning is impaired.