THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP FOR YOUR HEALTH
Research has shown that most of the metabolic work necessary to repair the body takes place when we sleep. Sleep is divided into several phases or stages. The first relates to the induction of sleep, the second marks the beginning of sleep. Phases 3 and 4 are characterized by long and regular brain waves; this is deep sleep. The last phase is associated with fast eye movements and corresponds to the period when dreams occur. It is during deep sleep (stages 3 and 4) that the body releases growth hormone. This promotes growth in youth as well as regeneration and tissue repair in adults. The sleep cycle repeats itself in the same manner over many hours, such that we go through most sleep phases several times during one night.
Therefore, in order to strengthen muscles, tendons, ligaments and cartilage, and to regenerate the organs and skin, the body has to go through a process of protein synthesis, which takes place precisely during the deep sleep phase. Unfortunately, protein synthesis becomes less efficient with aging and the regeneration process slows down. Hydrolyzed collagen proves to be an excellent nutritional supplement for the body, as it supplies it with the sequences of amino acids that support the regeneration and synthesis of new proteins during sleep. Certainly, sleep represents the basis of regeneration and it is essential to our health.
Conclusion: Better sleep equals better recovery.