write one body paragraph about sleep and cite a source about it

Quality sleep is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. During sleep, the body undergoes critical processes that support both physical and mental health. For example, sleep plays a vital role in healing and repair of the heart and blood vessels, and ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Additionally, sleep is crucial for brain function, as it helps prepare the brain for the next day, forming new pathways to support learning and memory (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [NHLBI], n.d.). The brain processes and consolidates memories from the day during sleep, making it imperative for learning and retaining information. Sleep deficiency can impair cognitive processes, affecting problem-solving skills, decision-making, and even emotional regulation. Furthermore, proper sleep supports growth and development in children and teens, as the body releases growth hormones during deep sleep. Therefore, consistent and uninterrupted sleep is fundamental to overall health, supporting everything from physical rejuvenation to cognitive performance and emotional stability.

Source:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (n.d.). Sleep Deprivation and Deficiency. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/sleep-deprivation-and-deficiency