When you think about boosting your immune system, the first things that come to mind are probably vitamins, hand-washing, or a healthy diet. But there’s one essential element that often gets overlooked: sleep.
Quality rest doesn’t just help you feel refreshed—it strengthens your body’s ability to fight off illness. If you’ve ever noticed you’re more likely to catch a cold when you’re run down, that’s no coincidence. Let’s break down how sleep and immunity are connected, and how you can support your health with better rest.
How sleep supports your immune system
Sleep isn’t just “downtime.” While you rest, your body gets to work:
- Immune cell production: During deep sleep, your body produces and releases cytokines—proteins that target infection and inflammation.
- Antibody response: Adequate rest helps your body form antibodies after exposure to viruses or vaccines.
- Stress regulation: Poor sleep raises stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress immune function.
Simply put, sleep gives your body the resources it needs to defend itself.
What happens when you don’t sleep enough
Even a few nights of poor sleep can leave your immune system more vulnerable. Studies show that people who sleep fewer than seven hours a night are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus compared to those who consistently get eight hours.
Common effects of sleep deprivation on immunity include:
- Slower recovery from illness
- Higher inflammation levels
- Lower vaccine effectiveness
How to support immunity with better sleep
1. Stick to a schedule
Your immune system loves consistency. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to get restorative rest.
2. Create a healthy sleep environment
A calm, comfortable sleep space sets the stage for deep rest:
- Keep your bedroom dark and cool
- Limit noise with white noise or earplugs
- Choose breathable bedding to prevent overheating
(Our Organic Cotton Sheets and Latex Topper are designed to keep your sleep surface cool, comfortable, and supportive—all night long.)
3. Unplug before bed
The blue light from screens can delay melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Try reading, stretching, or journaling instead of scrolling.
4. Prioritize your mattress
A supportive mattress ensures your body can fully relax, helping you reach the deep sleep stages that are most restorative.
At My Green Mattress, our organic, handcrafted mattresses are built with GOLS-certified latex and GOTS-certified cotton to provide comfort and support while avoiding harmful chemicals that could interfere with your health.
