‘Sleeping in’ is definitely one of those cherished luxuries we all hope for at least once a week.  Nothing rejuvenates a body weary from a heavy work week like comfy, relaxing hours of restorative sleep.  Today, researchers say that the benefits of sleep includes more than easing fatigue, but also boosts the power of hepatitis B vaccines.

Getting a healthy dose of sleep can increase the effectiveness of hepatitis B vaccines.  New research has emphasized the role of sleep duration on the degree of antibody responses to hepatitis B vaccine. According to researchers who observed approximately 125 people who received the series of hepatitis B vaccinations, sleep  time seems to have a significant effect on how the vaccines work in the body.

Standard hepatitis B vaccines are given in three doses. For the participants in this study, the second shot was given one month after the first dose, and the third shot six months after.

In order to get the most credible results, researchers observed the sleeping habits of the participants in their home, to replicate the most natural state of their sleeping environment.  Both sleep quality and sleep duration were monitored in a more authentic setting that could be difficult to achieve in a sleep laboratory.

According to the research findings, people who slept an average of seven hours every night showed more favorable responses to the vaccine. However, those who slept less than six hours every night showed a slower antibody response to the shot. Thus, people with less enthusiastic sleeping habits would be less protected by immunization compared to those who make sure to get at least seven hours of sleep regularly.

So if you’re planning on getting a hepatitis B shot anytime soon, ensure the potency of the vaccine — get a healthy dose of shut eye and the sweetest dreams!