If you didn’t already know, your body’s drainage system is the lymphatic system which clears fluid accumulation from tissues, consists of WBCs to fight infections and helps eliminate waste from the body. But this system does not extend till the brain.

Our brain, the enigma that it is, has its own waste clearance system called the “glymphatic system” which extends to the entire central nervous system. This system works on toxin and metabolic waste clearance. It also helps with nutrient distribution to the brain and CNS. This is crucial for brain function because metabolic waste/toxin accumulation in the brain can lead to neurodegenerative issues with age.

But the interesting fact is, the glymphatic system is largely inactive when you are awake but most active when you’re in stages of deep sleep! (read my earlier post to know more about stages of sleep) This means that your brain effectively clears out metabolic waste and cleans itself only if you sleep well. While there are other more complicated physiological aspects which affect the glymphatic system, in a normal person sleep plays a very crucial role in the waste clearance process.

How can you retain optimum glymphatic system function for a healthy brain?

• Optimum intake of omega 3 fatty acids in diet
• Ensure you sleep well consistently at night!
• Limit alcohol intake
• Physical activity through the day and aerobic exercise helps the glymphatic system function better by improving sleep quality

Adding to this, managing stress is crucial to ensure good sleep every night. Breathing practices, guided meditation, reduced screen time are some ways to cope with stress.