Sleep Disorders in Kids: How the Microbiome Could Be the Key

In children, sleep disorders can cause problems with school performance and behavior, as well as create neurologic and immunologic issues. Researchers have detected the existence of the brain microbiome that has an impact on sleep. The brain is essentially cleared of waste during sleep, especially REM sleep. Children with neurologic challenges tend to have less REM sleep and fewer dreams, and thus fail to clear out waste from their brains. There’s a connection between the brain and the gut. Microbes from the gut are transported to the brain and can produce a neurotransmitter that plays a role in sleep regulation. Additionally, melatonin is largely produced in the gut, and melatonin supplements can help children with sleep.

Key Takeaways:

• Sleep deprivation in children can affect school performance, behavior, and neurologic and immunologic function.
• Brain waste is cleared during sleep, especially during REM sleep when dreaming occurs.
• Gut microbes are transported to the brain, and melatonin makes them more active.

“Chronic sleep deprivation in parents can cause similar issues with mood, cognition, and other negative health outcomes.”

Read more: https://betterbiome.com/blogs/blog/sleep-disorders-in-kids-how-the-microbiome-could-be-the-key