Sleep Triggered by Cellular Energy Crisis, New Study Reveals

The provided text discusses the evolutionary perspective of sleep and the symptoms of sleep deprivation.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

Evolutionary Perspective on Sleep:

Sleep is presented not as an evolutionary weakness but as an “inevitable need.”
This need arose as organisms evolved to use oxygen for energy production (mitochondria emerged over 2 billion years ago). As brains became more complex and demanded more energy, sleep became a way to “temporarily turn off the system” to prevent its fundamental components from being “founded” (likely meaning damaged or depleted).

Lack of concentration and memory problems: Impaired ability to retain and process details,affecting productivity and learning.
Mood swings and irritability: Difficulty with emotional regulation, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and susceptibility to depression.
reduced reaction time: drowsiness negatively impacts reflexes, posing dangers like in driving.
Chronic fatigue and low physical performance: The body’s inability to repair tissues and regenerate muscles results in persistent exhaustion.

Insomnia occurs at least three times a week for a month or more.
There’s frequent difficulty falling asleep or constant night awakenings.
Sleep is not restorative, even after adequate hours.
Excessive daytime sleepiness is experienced, leading to involuntary sleep in everyday situations.
Loud snoring or breathing pauses during sleep are observed, potentially indicating sleep apnea.
* Sudden changes in sleep or mood patterns substantially impact daily life.