This study provides the first direct evidence that EEG-assessed sleep disruptions are associated with the stress-immune relationship in humans. Stress has long been suspected of interfering with immune system function, and has been found to increase susceptibility to the common cold and slow wound healing.

The researchers found that those people who were more likely to be awake during the first cycle of sleep also tended to have lower levels of natural killer cells. Overall, the age of the patient was the greatest determinant of NKC level, with sleep disturbances responsible for about 12% of the variance in NKC level.

Psychosomatic Medicine 1998;60

Dr. Mercola's Comment:

Yet more complications from turning on the light during your family sleep time.