Social relationships, sleep quality, and interleukin-6 in aging women

This study examined how social relationships and sleep quality impact inflammation (measured by interleukin-6, IL-6) in aging women. Women with strong social connections and efficient sleep had lower IL-6 levels, which are associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases and cognitive decline. Interestingly, either factor alone (good social ties or efficient sleep) could partly compensate for the lack of the other in lowering IL-6 levels. These findings highlight the complementary benefits of social and sleep health in promoting better aging and brain health.

Maintain positive social connections and prioritize good sleep hygiene to reduce inflammation and support overall health. Engage in meaningful relationships and practice consistent sleep routines. Since the study's cross-sectional design limits causality, consider combining these actions with other healthy habits for comprehensive aging support.