How Your DNA Affects Your Sleep Quality

10 Apr How Your DNA Affects Your Sleep Quality

Did you know that both your sleep and its quality are affected not only by your environment but also by your DNA? Your DNA can provide clarity on a number of factors that canand probably do affect your sleep.

For example, are you a Night Owl or Early Bird? Do you struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep? Are you one of those people unaffected by caffeine at night? Or are you bouncing off the walls after just a few sips? Let’s explore why you sleep the way you do a little further.

Your Sleep Quality, Body Clock and Its Circadian Rhythm

As the name implies, your body’s clock regulates when you wake up and when you sleep. This is your Circadian Rhythm. The genes involved here are called CLOCK (yes, clock) and PER3.

If you’re a morning person, your genetic variants make your clock run a little early. If you are a night owl, your clock runs a little late. A number of factors, including caffeine and light, can influence your Circadian Rhythm.

Your Sleep Quality and Caffeine Sensitivity

The CYP1A2 gene regulates how fast your liver metabolises caffeine. If your liver processes caffeine quickly, you’re less sensitive to it, and it’s less likely to disrupt your sleep.

But if your liver is slower in its breakdown, then, unfortunately, your glorious cup of coffee might make you toss and turn in bed.

Your Sleep Quality, Melatonin and Light Sensitivity

Melatonin, an important hormone, signals to your body that it’s time to sleep, and its production is regulated by the MTNR1B gene.

Light influences how fast melatonin is produced, affecting how easily you fall asleep. Essentially, the brighter your screen, the slower melatonin is produced and the harder it is to fall asleep.

Tips to Improve Your Sleep Quality

• Adjust your sleep schedule according to your natural Circadian Rhythm.
• If you are sensitive to caffeine, try not to have any at least 3-4 hours before bed.
• Avoid screens before bed and ensure your room is as dark as possible.
• If needed, try taking melatonin supplements to help you sleep. But do consult your healthcare professional.

Do you need help figuring out how your body’s sleep patterns work? Our DNA test home kit can shed some light on the topic.