At the center of the damage caused by sleep deprivation is a rise in oxidative stress, driven by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the gut.
Research shows that during periods of inadequate sleep, ROS levels increase sharply in the gastrointestinal tract. This oxidative stress disrupts nutrient absorption, weakens gut integrity, and contributes to widespread cellular stress.
Importantly, research suggests that neutralizing elevated ROS levels can preserve health and extend lifespan, even under continued sleep deprivation.
Collectively, the evidence suggests that the body’s ability to withstand the effects of poor sleep may depend on how well it manages oxidative stress in the gut.
