What is the glymphatic system?

The glymphatic system is the brain’s lymphatic system. This system is responsible for clearing out materials, directing fluid movement and plays a key roll in brain immunity. Neurotoxins and harmful proteins, such as beta-amyloid plaques that are seen in Alzheimer’s disease, are just some of the materials moved out by this system.

The glymphatic system is most active during sleep (particularly non-REM [rapid eye movement]sleep) and least active when we are awake. The position in which we sleep can also influence the way this system works, such as sleeping in a reclined position. Sleep disturbances, especially chronic, can impair how this system functions due its contributions to neuroinflammation.

Neurological traumas such as concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and stroke can create neuroinflammation and reduce the efficacy of the glymphatic system as well.

There's developing research indicating that poor sleep is linked with infertility as well as chronic pain (also knows as central sensitization). Poor sleep will encourage inflammation of the brain, particularly the hypothalamus which regulates reproductive hormones.