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Best Acid Reflux Pillow – Top Choices

09/10/202402/03/2024 by Ben Trapskin

Best Should Pillow for Acid Reflux

Medcline

$249.99

Available in 2 sizes
95% of MedCline users report better sleep
1:1 access to a Sleep Specialist
CertiPUR-US®, gel-infused foam that’s built to last and for cooling comfort
Patented arm pocket for left- or right-side sleeping

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Our Review

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It’s your best friend’s birthday, and you finally head to the new Italian restaurant you have been eyeing for a long time. You dine with mindless abandon– from garlic pasta, spicy sausage, and homemade tomato sauce to tons of wine. When you return home fully sated, you have only one thing on your mind– long, deep, restful sleep. But the moment you lie in bed, it hits you like a train. What? Acid reflux.

We have been in such a situation many, many times, when we have gobbled down food and washed down alcohol like there’s no tomorrow, only to stay awake all night with a tummy ache, discomfort, and heartburn. Acid reflux is extremely common, mostly because of our eating habits. Of course, there are people with weak digestive systems who are more prone to acid reflux, but it almost always happens because of the things we eat or drink.

Among the many reasons that can disrupt sleep at night, there is acid reflux. Anyone who has ever experienced acid reflux will be acutely aware of how difficult it makes sleep. You keep tossing and turning, drinking water, pacing up and down the room, downing digestives in hopes of making it better, but it isn’t easy to get rid of. The result is that the next morning you aren’t just sleepy, but also not feeling your best. All because of the birthday dinner that you so enjoyed.

Acid reflux can be prevented, but there are times it happens suddenly. Don’t be surprised if you get acidity even without eating a heavy Italian meal for dinner. There are various reasons why acid reflux happens, but no matter why it happens, it always makes falling asleep an impossible task.

Because acid reflux is so common, a number of manufacturers have come up with a special pillow that are supposed to help with acid reflux symptoms and make it easier to fall asleep. With normal pillows, you keep stacking then but don’t get the support that you need to ease the heartburn. That’s why these special pillows are intended to help you sleep even when you have acid reflux symptoms.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Before we discuss the pillows made for acid reflux, let’s first discuss what acid reflux is and why it happens. Although we know it by many names – acidity, indigestion, dyspepsia – it’s the same thing – gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

The condition is characterized by a burning sensation and discomfort located in the throat, chest or stomach. Sometimes it also leaves a sour taste in the mouth, besides nausea, bloating, flatulence and belching. With all these symptoms it’s no wonder that acid reflux makes it difficult to fall asleep.

What Exactly Is the Cause of Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is caused by a hiatal hernia, in which a part of the stomach pushes up towards the chest. This is the cause of acid reflux when the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter push above the diaphragm. The diaphragm muscle is responsible for helping keep acid in our stomach. When a part of the stomach pushes up, and above the diaphragm, the acid moves up into the esophagus. The diaphragm muscles are supposed to be taut, keeping the opening leading from the stomach to the esophagus closed. During eating or drinking, these muscles relax to allow the food to pass to the stomach, then tighten again. In people with GERD, the diaphragm muscles are weak and don’t relax when they should. This prevents the esophageal muscles from closing completely and allows stomach contents to push back up the throat. This is what causes indigestion, bloating, heartburn, and discomfort.

Acid reflux is more common than any other condition. About 60 percent of the American population experiences acid reflux every year, with more than half of them getting weekly symptoms. Acid reflux clearly needs more attention than just popping digestive supplements.

There are several factors that cause acid reflux. Some of the most factors are:

Eating too close to bedtime
Consuming acid triggering foods, such as alcohol, spicy or fatty foods, and caffeine
Smoking
Obesity
Wearing tight clothing to bed

As we realize, most of the factors that cause acid reflux are manageable. But since acid reflux mostly happens at night during bedtime, it affects sleep more than anything else. This is why the things we consume close to bedtime have a maximum effect on our digestive system.

Do Wedge Pillows Work for Acid Reflux?

There are quite a few treatments and prevention options for acid reflux. Taking antacids, prescription medications, and surgery are some of the means for those who experience regular acid reflux symptoms. However, none offer any immediate improvement and have side effects. Popping an antacid when you have acid reflux during bedtime can offer relief, but it takes a few hours to work. So until then, you have to keep tossing and turning or pacing around your room.

There is, however, a quick and easy relief option when you experience acid reflux at night, and that is by elevating the upper portion of your body while you are lying down in bed. The elevation is proven to be one of the quickest solutions for acid reflux because it prevents stomach contents from coming up to the throat through the esophagus. Several studies have found the usefulness of elevating your head or the upper portion of your body to get immediate relief from acid reflux symptoms.

There are quite a few ways to elevate your head while you lay down, including stacking up the pillows and elevating the head of the bed. However, suppose you elevate your head simply by stacking a few pillows. In that case, you are creating excessive strain on your neck and spine, as well as creating pressure on your abdomen and aggravating acid reflux symptoms. Unfortunately, that is the way most people are used to elevating their head, but it isn’t of much use.

This is when you should use wedge pillows that have been specially designed to keep the head elevated while supporting the rest of the body. While wedge pillows have several different uses, they are mostly used for elevating certain body parts, such as the head, the shoulders, the back, or the legs. As the name suggests, these pillows are shaped like a wedge and are a little firmer than regular ones, allowing them to provide better support. Wedge pillows are also used for elevating the head for people who snore or have sleep apnea or need support during pregnancy.

Wedge pillows are a simple, affordable, and risk-free solution to treat nighttime GERD quickly. It won’t make your symptoms disappear, but it will make sleeping at night much easier. It is also far safer than popping pills or undergoing surgery. Wedge pillows are available online and at major bedding stores.

5 Best Wedge Pillows for Acid Reflux?

Wedge pillows are primarily manufactured for acid reflux relief. They are rising in popularity, and various manufacturers have started bringing out their own wedge pillow versions. But remember that there is a difference between ordinary wedge pillows and those specifically designed for acid reflux relief. Various cheap alternatives to wedge pillows are available, but they cannot provide the support that therapeutic pillows do. That is why, when purchasing a wedge pillow, ensure it is meant for therapeutic use.

Here we look at the top 5 wedge pillows capable of providing elevation and support.

MedCline Wedge and Body Pillow Reflux Relief System

The MedCline Reflux Relief System was created by Dr. Carl Melcher, a life-long sufferer of acid reflux. Dr. Melcher aimed to create a natural treatment alternative to nighttime reflux by creating the recommended incline + left-side sleeping position. This three-component sleep system has been studied extensively by the Cleveland Clinic in multiple clinical trials showing significantly more relief than a standard bed wedge.

The Sleep System is designed to keep sleepers on the left side throughout the night while keeping the torso elevated. This is one of those systems that prevent the sleeper from sliding down from the wedge pillow while providing support to the entire body with the help of the body pillow.

The tri-component system has a patented design to create an elevated and side sleeping position for relief from acid reflux. The system can also be used for snoring and sleep apnea. Because you aren’t going to slide down this pillow, you remain in the right position all night long and get maximum relief.

If you aren’t naturally a side sleeper, then the patented arm pocket of the Reflux Relief Wedge not only prevents you from sliding down the pillow but also prevents any pressure on your arms and shoulders. The body pillow prevents you from rolling onto your back, and also allows you to keep your knees tucked to take the pressure off the lower back. The pillowcases are included and can also be washed.

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FitPlus Premium Wedge Pillow

If you are interested in a doctor-recommended wedge pillow for acid reflux, snoring, sleep apnea, and CPAP devices, then consider FitPlus Premium. This pillow has an underlying polyurethane foam wedge with a 1.5-inch layer of memory foam on top to provide you with comfort and support. The pillow has been designed in such a way that it keeps your torso elevated and supported throughout the night in case of acid reflux, congestion, snoring, sleep apnea, and any other condition that requires elevation. The pillow has a gentle elevation meant to provide cervical alignment and support to the torso while providing an inclination of 7.5 inches.

Aside from relief with sleep apnea acid reflux and congestion, this wedge pillow can also be used for elevation doing the reading, watching television and working. It has a soft cover that is washable and easy to maintain. You may also use this pillow for leg elevation or for inclining any part of the body. Design for both back and side sleepers, the highlight of this pillow is the cushioning that the memory foam layer provides. However, some customers have complained that the pillow is too high and a little too firm to be comfortable.

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Medslant Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow

A common complaint about wedge pillows is that they are too small or too narrow and do not offer enough room the spread or move about without sliding off. Most wedge pillows are the same size as a regular pillow designed only for the head and neck. However, wedge pillows are also meant to support and incline the torso, which isn’t possible if the size of the pillow is small. Even if a small wedge pillow is capable of providing the sleeper with enough inclination and support, it’s easy to slide off during the night because there is not enough room to move about.

This is where the MedSlant Wedge Pillow is a winner. Not only is this pillow longer than usual but is also 28 inches wide which is half the size of a queen bed. Although this pillow elevates the torso up to 7 inches, the gradual slope does not make the incline too steep. Whether you are a back sleeper side sleeper or a combination sleeper who likes to move about during the night, this wedge pillow fits a number of different requirements. Made from a soy, polyurethane foam, it has a cushion of memory foam but also with a firm foundation layer underneath, with zero off-gassing. The zippered cover made of microfiber is easy to take off and wash and allows more breathability and airflow to keep you cool in any season. The size of this pillow offers you to adjust your sleeping position better, and also makes this a more suitable option for all kinds of sleepers.

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Bed Wedge Pillow by Xtra-Comfort

If the size of the pillow is important to you, then another great option is the wedge pillow by Xtra Comfort. What makes this pillow stand apart from the rest is the incredible 12 inches of elevation. Yes, the adjustable loft of this pillow can be increased up to 12 inches, so you can remain supported and inclined for a number of different purposes, from sleeping to reading to working. Besides the torso, the legs can also be elevated using this pillow, and the high elevation is useful if you have a fracture or sprain.

This folding pillow is made from dense memory foam, has a firmer feel than most other wedge pillows, and also offers more control because of the 3 in 1 design. The clever design of the pillow makes it useful for both the back and the rest of the body. The soft, microplush cover can be removed for washing, and the zipper keeps it snug and secure. There is also a handle on the cover, which can also be used for easy storage and portability. Because the pillow is large, the handle is useful. However, some users have said that the pillow is a little too firm and takes a little time to get used to.

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Xtreme Comforts 7″ Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow

The Xtreme Comforts Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow is made by layering two solid wedges, which make the sleeping surface soft and comfortable while accommodating both side and back sleepers. The sleeping position offered by this pillow not only allows the head and the neck to sink into the surface for better support and spinal alignment but also keeps the body inclined at a 30-degree angle. This helps reduce symptoms of acid reflux, sleep apnea and snoring.

The pillow has a plush bamboo cover that facilitates excellent airflow and provides maximum comfort to the sleeper. The pillow can be used to support other parts of the body, such as the back, the legs, and the knees. However, even though the pillow is mostly a great product for back and side sleepers who suffer from acid reflux, some users have complained about off-gassing and the pillow being too firm.

How to Sleep If You Have Acid Reflux?

Because acid reflux is more common than many other conditions, it is one of the biggest causes behind disrupted sleep. Acid reflux can happen at any time during the day but is notorious for striking at night, just when you’re trying to sleep. This happens particularly when you consume a big heavy meal close to bedtime or smoke or drink or have a natural tendency for GERD. In some people, everything they eat gives them acid reflux. And the problem compounds at night, just when you’re lying down in a supine position. In such cases, medicines are not much help, and surgery needs to be done in order to get rid of chronic acid reflux.

Acid reflux or GERD is notorious for disrupting sleep quality. The heartburn, pain, and discomfort can keep you up for several nights if the problem persists. As a result, you are weary, sleepy, tired, and unable to feel comfortable because of the dyspepsia. There are actually people who go through this very frequently but don’t know what to do about it. Sleep position can have a vital role to play in managing nighttime acid reflux.

As several studies have already found, elevation is the key to battling nighttime GERD. The point is to prevent the stomach from sending its contents to the throat through the esophagus. When you keep your torso elevated, the stomach acids are unable to come up towards the throat.

When the acids reach the back of the throat or larynx, it prompts choking or a coughing fit, which wakes you up. You may also wake up when you get regurgitation when some amount of stomach acids come up into the mouth through the esophagus. All these aren’t pleasant things to experience when you’re trying to fall asleep.

GERD or acid reflux is also known to be a risk factor for sleep apnea, a respiratory disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts through the night when the person is asleep. It is believed that the acids cause spasms in the voice box, blocking the airways and preventing air from flowing into the lungs.

What makes matters worse is the mechanisms of sleep. Just the act of being flat on your back or side increases the risk or acid reflux. When you are in an upright position, sitting or standing, the force of gravity keeps the stomach acids from rising. When you are lying flat, it’s a lot easier for the stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

When a person is asleep, they swallow less frequently. As a result, the regular esophageal contractions that help keep food down in the stomach are slowed. When people are asleep, they also produce less saliva, which hinders the role it plays in keeping esophageal pH levels normal after acids are refluxed.

That means you must revise your sleeping position to prevent acid reflux. We need to lay down to sleep, and that can’t be changed. But what can be done is to keep the torso elevated to prevent the stomach acids from flowing back towards the throat. And what better way to achieve this than with the help of a wedge pillow?

How High Should You Elevate Your Head?

Although elevation is key in preventing the risk of acid reflux, there are a few do’s and don’ts of inclining your torso. First and foremost, remember that keeping your body supported during sleep is more important than anything else. If you fail to keep your neck, spine, and shoulders supported while you sleep, you are going to hurt your posture, and end up with aches and pains. That’s even worse than acid reflux.

Before going out and buying a wedge pillow, remember that your torso shouldn’t be inclined any higher than six to eight inches. Yes, so that 12-inch pillow that you read about, keep the highest inclination only for the legs and stick to six to eight inches for the torso. Any higher and you have the risk of ending up with a stiff neck and sore back.

Sleeping on your back is also a risk factor for acid reflux. When you sleep on your back, the pressure created on the stomach helps drive the acids back into the esophagus. That is why you must have noticed that lying flat not only increases the discomfort but also makes you prone to regurgitation. If you’re overweight or obese, the risk is even greater. Overweight or obese people should avoid sleeping on their back to prevent instances of acid reflux.

Sleeping on the right side is also another factor that contributes to acid reflux. When you sleep on your right side, it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, which tightens to prevent acid reflux. The loosening of these muscles increases the chances of acid reflux. Sleeping on the right side has also been found generally disruptive to sleep quality. Even if you do not suffer from acid reflux, you should practice sleeping on your left side.

In various studies, it has been found that sleeping on the left side is best for optimal sleep quality. Whether you have trouble falling asleep, suffer from constipation or are prone to snoring, sleeping on your left side can be much better for quality sleep.

How to Manage Nighttime Acid Reflux?

Nighttime GERD is most often caused by eating habits and aggravated by sleep positions. If you frequently suffer from nighttime acid reflux, try the following for relief:

Don’t Eat or Drink Too Close to Bedtime: You should stop eating and drinking at least two hours before going to bed. Also, make sure to avoid caffeine after 2 p.m. because it is also a potential cause of acid reflux at night.

Avoid Acidic Foods: Plenty of foods seem harmless but are actually acidic or cause acid reflux. The list is never-ending, from tomatoes to red wine to coffee to garlic. Make sure to avoid these foods before bedtime to reduce the chances of acid reflux.

Lose Weight: Excess weight and obesity are often triggers for nighttime acid reflux because they create pressure on the abdomen. In that case, losing weight is the best solution to prevent acid reflux.

Wear loose clothing to bed: Wearing clothing that is too tight to bed constricts the stomach and makes digestion difficult. Remember to wear loose-fitting clothing to bed to reduce acid reflux.

GERD or acid reflux may be common, but it’s also easily manageable. Make some lifestyle changes and get a wedge pillow to elevate your torso and enjoy a better sleep every night.

Using an Acid Reflux Pillow for Optimal Relief:

Here’s a guide to properly using an acid reflux pillow for maximum benefit:

Positioning:

- Angle: Most experts recommend a 30-45 degree incline, aiming for 6-8 inches of elevation at the head. This angle helps gravity keep stomach acid down.

- Placement: Position the wedge with the lower incline towards your mid-back and the higher incline supporting your head and neck. Leave 2-3 inches of space between your head and the top of the wedge.

- Sleeping posture: While the wedge elevates your upper body, side sleeping is generally considered best for acid reflux. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.

Choosing the right pillow:

- Types: Opt for a wedge pillow specifically designed for acid reflux. These often have features like cooling materials and neck support. Consider adjustable wedge pillows for fine-tuning the angle.

- Fill and firmness: Choose a material and firmness that suits your comfort and sleep style. Memory foam provides good support, while down alternative may be softer.

Additional tips:

- Start gradually: If you’re not used to sleeping elevated, introduce the wedge pillow gradually to avoid neck strain. Begin with a lower angle and increase over time.

- Combine with lifestyle changes: Alongside the pillow, practice healthy habits like avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not eating close to bedtime.

Consult a doctor: If your acid reflux persists despite lifestyle changes and using the pillow correctly, consult your doctor for further evaluation and treatment options.

Medcline

$249

A patented, three-component sleep solution
Backed by 7 clinical trials
Supported by dedicated MedCline Sleep Specialists
FSA/HSA approved

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Product Image	Product Name	Primary Button
	Medslant	Buy Now
	Medcline	Buy Now
Best Should Pillow for Acid Reflux	Medcline	Buy Now
Best Anti-Aging Pillow	SLEEP & GLOW	Buy Now

Medslant

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Medcline

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Best Should Pillow for Acid Reflux

Medcline

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Best Anti-Aging Pillow

SLEEP & GLOW

Buy Now

Growing Popularity of Acid Reflux Pillows

- Rising awareness of GERD: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic form of acid reflux, affects a significant portion of the population (estimated 15-30% in the US). As awareness of GERD grows, people seek diverse management options, potentially including acid reflux pillows.

- Increased online presence: More companies offer acid reflux pillows, and searches for related terms (“acid reflux pillow”, “wedge pillow for GERD”) generate substantial results, suggesting consumer interest.

Emerging research: While limited, some studies show positive results for wedge pillows in reducing reflux symptoms, further fueling potential interest.

Long Term Health Consequences of Acid Reflux

Chronic acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), can have various long-term health effects if left untreated. Here’s a breakdown of potential consequences:

Direct consequences on the esophagus:

- Esophagitis: The constant exposure to stomach acid irritates and inflames the esophageal lining, leading to discomfort, pain, and difficulty swallowing.

- Ulcers: Chronic inflammation can cause open sores (ulcers) to form in the esophagus, increasing pain and potentially bleeding.

- Strictures: Over time, scarring can develop in the esophagus, narrowing its passage and causing difficulty swallowing even solid foods.

- Barrett’s esophagus: This precancerous condition involves changes in the esophageal lining due to chronic acid exposure. While most cases don’t progress to cancer, it increases the risk significantly.

Indirect consequences on other systems:

- Respiratory problems: Acid reflux can irritate the airways, triggering asthma symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

- Dental problems: Acid erosion can damage tooth enamel, increasing cavities and sensitivity.

- Sleep disturbances: Heartburn and discomfort at night can disrupt sleep quality, leading to fatigue and daytime dysfunction.

- Nutritional deficiencies: Difficulty swallowing and discomfort can lead to reduced food intake, potentially causing deficiencies in essential nutrients.

It’s crucial to manage chronic acid reflux to prevent these complications. If you experience frequent heartburn or other symptoms, consult your doctor. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help minimize the risk of long-term consequences.

Best Angle for Sleeping to Avoid Acid Reflux

Unfortunately, there isn’t a single “best” angle for everyone to sleep at to avoid acid reflux. However, several strategies have been shown to be effective for many people:

1. Sleeping on your left side: Studies suggest this helps keep the stomach contents below the esophagus, making it harder for acid to flow back up. This is often referred to as the “left side down, right side up” rule.

2. Elevating your upper body: Raising your head and torso while you sleep creates an incline that can also help prevent acid reflux. Aim for about 6-8 inches of elevation at the head, using pillows or a wedge pillow designed for acid reflux. Propping yourself up with just regular pillows won’t be as effective because it only elevates your head, not your entire upper body.

3. Combining both: This seems to be the most effective approach for many people. Sleeping on your left side while also elevating your upper body can maximize the benefits of both strategies.

Adjustable beds: A viable alternative to acid reflux pillows, offering some potential advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

- Greater adjustability: You can fine-tune the head and foot elevation to find the exact angle that provides you the most relief. This allows for more personalization compared to wedge pillows.

- Additional features: Some models offer massage functions, heat therapy, and zero-gravity settings that can further promote relaxation and comfort.

- Long-term investment: If you experience chronic acid reflux, an adjustable bed can be a more durable and potentially cost-effective solution compared to replacing wedge pillows over time.

Disadvantages:

- Cost: Adjustable beds are significantly more expensive than wedge pillows.

- Complexity: They can be more complex to set up and operate than simple wedge pillows.

- Potential downsides of adjustability: Over-adjusting or changing positions frequently might disrupt sleep.

- Not a guaranteed solution: While helpful for many, they may not completely eliminate acid reflux for everyone.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Feature	Acid reflux pillow	Adjustable bed
Price	Lower	Significantly higher
Adjustability	Limited (angle)	Wide range (head, foot, positions)
Durability	Moderate	Higher
Additional features	None	Massage, heat, zero-gravity
Setup	Simple	More complex
Guaranteed solution?	No	No

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Consider the severity of your acid reflux, how well you respond to adjustments, and whether the additional features of an adjustable bed justify the cost.

Air Quality and Sleep – Are They Interlinked?

09/10/202402/02/2024 by Ben Trapskin

Air Quality and Sleep: A Look at the Connection

Air Quality Factor	Impact on Sleep	Possible Reasons	Tips for Better Sleep
Outdoor Air Pollution (PM2.5, Ozone)	– Reduced sleep duration and efficiency<br>- Increased sleep disturbances and apnea<br>- Difficulty falling asleep	– Inflammation in the airways<br>- Disruption of the nervous system	– Close windows at night, especially in polluted areas<br>- Use an air purifier with HEPA filter<br>- Monitor local air quality reports and stay informed
Indoor Air Pollution (Dust mites, Mold, Chemicals)	– Similar sleep disturbances as outdoor pollution<br>- Allergic reactions leading to congestion and discomfort	– Triggers respiratory issues<br>- Interferes with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle	– Regularly clean and vacuum bedroom<br>- Control humidity levels (30-50%) to prevent mold growth<br>- Use allergen-proof bedding and mattress covers
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)	– Decreased sleep quality and REM sleep<br>- Headaches and cognitive impairment in the morning	– Reduces oxygen availability in the blood<br>- Disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle	– Ensure proper ventilation in the bedroom<br>- Open windows before bed if air quality permits<br>- Use an air purifier with CO2 sensor
Temperature	– Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep in hot or cold environments	– Disrupts the body’s natural thermoregulation needed for sleep	– Maintain a cool bedroom temperature (60-67°F) at night<br>- Use breathable bedding and avoid heavy pajamas<br>- Take a warm bath before bed (not too close to bedtime)
Noise	– Increased sleep disturbances and awakenings<br>- Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep	– Interrupts sleep cycles and increases stress levels	– Use earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones<br>- Create a quiet sleep environment<br>- Address any persistent noise sources (e.g., traffic, neighbors)

Research published by the Annals American Thoracic Society states that the ill effects of air pollution may cause many people to lose sleep.

Researchers have found that people living in regions with high air pollution are likely to face sleep problems compared to those living in areas with less air pollution.

Low quality and lack of sleep have adverse effects on humans. It increases the chances of accidents and also makes them moody. If this becomes a habit, then it can be harmful to your health. People not having adequate sleep are more likely to suffer from cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

How Air Pollution Affects your Airways

Poor air quality could affect your upper airways and increase sleep apnea chances. Dr. Ryan Donald, sleep medicine expert at The Ohio State University, said that they need to research more to conclude if poor air quality and sleep are interconnected.

There are many reasons for sleep apnea. Air pollution causes congestion in the upper airway, but mold, dust, and pollen can also cause allergies and increase the chances of sleep apnea.

A study has found an association between air pollution and sleep but not a cause-effect relationship. Dr. Martha E. Billings, professor of Medicine at the University of Washington, stated that there is no direct relationship between air pollution and sleep. Still, yes, pollution causes people not to have a sound sleep. It makes them toss and turn while they are asleep.

Billings said that more studies are required to understand the direct link between air quality and sleep.

Air Pollution and Mood

Adverse air pollution also affects your mood. A research published a few months back on people’s happiness pointed out that people living in more polluted areas are less happy.

Researcher Siqi Zheng of MIT China Future City Lab stated that pollution also has an emotional effect. Pollution makes people unhappy and causes them to make irrational decisions. Researchers also noticed that people who do not like to live in air-polluted areas move to clean cities and are likely to experience mood swings when they live in more polluted areas.

Also, people living in cities with adverse air pollution are aware of and worried about their adverse health effects.

Air Pollution and Health Problems

Air pollution has a direct link to increased chances of respiratory problems like asthma and lung cancer. Studies have shown a relationship between air pollution and many health problems.

A study published in 2017 by the researchers of the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, stated that every additional 10 micrograms of PM 2.5/cubic meter of air increased the chances of cancer by 22% in seniors.

Another research stated that there are increased chances of premature birth if the pregnant woman is breathing highly polluted air. Other research stated that air pollution particles in the human brain could lead to dementia.

Indoor Air Quality and Sleep

Indoor air pollution could be more harmful than outdoor air. The outdoor air is around 4 to 5 times less polluted than indoors.

People are becoming more careful about what they eat and drink, but airborne chemicals can easily enter their bodies. One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality is to have more organic options at home.

One of the common airborne chemicals in our houses are toxic gases like Volatile Organic Compounds and PBDEs. It is next to impossible to find a house to stay in the United States without any airborne chemicals.

VOCs are found in homes in paints, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothes, aerosol spray, air fresheners, etc.

Your bedroom is the place where you can avoid toxic chemicals. Converting your bedroom into a healthy retreat can be a positive impact on your health and your children. Clean air helps you have a good night’s sleep and is significant for overall health.

Quality Air Purifier

Investing in a quality air purifier is the best way to improve air quality. Although it is almost impossible to limit toxins and pollution, an air purifier can help you breathe cleaner air.

You should look for an air purifier that has been tried and tested by users. Go for the one that removes more than 99% of airborne contaminants larger than 0.3 microns.

Also, choose the purifier that eliminates more than 2500 toxic gases and odors surrounding you, like ammonia, benzene, cooking odor, dry cleaning odor, etc.

I recently reviewed the Molekule Air Purifier It will eliminate VOCs and goes beyond what a standard HEPA filter can do. I highly recommend it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Air Quality Affect Sleep?

Air pollution could affect the quality of sleep. The researchers have focused on two aspects: sleep quality and sleep efficiency. Sleep quality is measured as the total number of hours you sleep and the times you wake up after falling asleep.

Can Air Pollution Make You Feel Tired?

The pollutants in the air cause an increase in fatigue. If you feel tired often, you should take some time off from working in poor air quality areas. One of the common symptoms of poor air quality is headache.

How Does Poor Air Quality Affect Health?

Long term exposure to poor air quality can lead to many health issues like:

Development of chronic respiratory diseases
Asthma
A decrease in lung function
Respiratory issues like irritation of airways, difficulty in breathing and coughing.

Air purifiers can improve sleep quality in several ways, depending on the specific pollutants and irritants they target:

1. Removing allergens and irritants:

- HEPA filters: These capture dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens that trigger nasal congestion, coughing, and itchy eyes. Reducing these allergens can significantly improve sleep quality for allergy sufferers.

- Carbon filters: These absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and household odors that can irritate airways and disrupt sleep. This can be helpful for people living in polluted areas or with sensitivities to chemical smells.

2. Reducing airborne particles:

- HEPA filters: These also capture fine dust particles (PM2.5) that can enter lungs and worsen respiratory issues, leading to disrupted sleep. This can be particularly beneficial for people with asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions.

3. Neutralizing odors:

- Carbon filters: As mentioned above, these can remove unpleasant odors from pets, cooking, or other sources, creating a more relaxing and sleep-conducive environment.

4. White noise generation:

- Some air purifiers produce white noise, which can mask other disruptive sounds and help people fall asleep and stay asleep. However, this may not be suitable for everyone.

5. Improved mood and well-being:

- Cleaner air can indirectly improve sleep quality by reducing stress and anxiety associated with breathing difficulties, allergies, or poor air quality concerns.

It’s important to note that:

- Air purifiers may not be a magic bullet for sleep problems. While they can address some air quality issues that impact sleep, other factors like stress, caffeine intake, and sleep hygiene also play a crucial role.

- Choosing the right purifier matters. Ensure you get a purifier with appropriate filters for your specific needs. Consider factors like room size, noise level, and filter replacement costs.

- Proper maintenance is key. Replace filters regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimal performance.

Remember, consulting a doctor is essential if you experience chronic sleep problems, as underlying medical conditions might be at play.

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Sleep quality improves with air quality through several interconnected mechanisms:

Reduced respiratory issues: Poor air quality exposes you to pollutants, allergens, and irritants that can trigger congestion, coughing, and difficulty breathing. These disruptions during sleep can significantly impact its quality and leave you feeling tired and unrested. Cleaner air means less irritation and easier breathing, facilitating deeper, more restful sleep.

Improved oxygen intake: When air quality is poor, there may be less oxygen available in the environment. This can lead to hypoxemia, a condition where the blood oxygen levels are too low. This further disrupts sleep cycles as your body struggles to maintain proper oxygenation, leading to frequent awakenings and lighter sleep. Breathing clean air ensures optimal oxygen intake throughout the night, promoting deeper and more restorative sleep.

Enhanced nervous system function: Poor air quality can trigger inflammatory responses in the body, impacting the nervous system and disrupting its natural sleep-wake cycle. Pollutants and allergens can also directly affect neurotransmitters involved in sleep regulation, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Cleaner air minimizes these disruptions, allowing the nervous system to function optimally and promote healthy sleep patterns.

Reduced stress and anxiety: Poor air quality can contribute to a sense of unease and discomfort, even subconsciously. This can trigger stress and anxiety, making it harder to relax and fall asleep. Addressing air quality concerns can create a more calming and restorative sleeping environment, reducing stress and promoting relaxation, both crucial for good sleep.

Overall healthier environment: Good air quality goes hand-in-hand with other aspects of a healthy sleep environment. Cleaner air often means reduced dust mites, mold, and other allergens, leading to fewer allergy-related sleep disruptions. Also, maintaining good air quality often involves proper ventilation and temperature control, contributing to a comfortable and sleep-conducive environment.

It’s important to remember that individual sensitivity to air quality can vary, and addressing other sleep hygiene factors alongside improving air quality is crucial for optimal sleep. However, focusing on clean air significantly creates a foundation for good sleep by minimizing disruptions and fostering a calm, healthy environment for your body and mind to rest and recharge.

Emerging Research on Air Quality and Sleep: Exciting Frontiers

The realm of air quality and sleep holds many exciting areas of ongoing research, delving deeper into the intricate connections and exploring novel solutions. Here are some key points to highlight:

1. Personalized approaches:

- Genetic variations: Research is investigating how individual genetic makeup might influence susceptibility to sleep disruptions from air pollution. This could pave the way for personalized recommendations on managing air quality for optimal sleep.

- Microbiome analysis: Studies are exploring the gut microbiome’s potential role in mediating the impact of air pollution on sleep. Understanding these connections could lead to targeted interventions like dietary adjustments or specific probiotics.

2. Beyond traditional pollutants:

- Nanoparticles: Growing research focuses on the influence of ultrafine particles smaller than PM2.5, which can easily penetrate deep into the lungs and potentially affect sleep quality.

- Chemical composition of air pollution: Studies are analyzing the specific components of air pollution (e.g., specific types of VOCs) and their unique effects on sleep, leading to more targeted mitigation strategies.

3. Technological advancements:

- Real-time air quality monitoring: Wearable devices and smart home sensors continuously track air quality, allowing for personalized feedback and adjustments to air purifiers or ventilation systems.

- AI-powered sleep monitoring: Advanced sleep trackers combined with air quality data could identify specific patterns and correlations, leading to personalized sleep optimization strategies.

4. Exploring natural solutions:

- Plants and urban green spaces: Research examines the potential of incorporating specific plants and creating green spaces in urban environments to improve air quality and promote better sleep for residents.

- Natural ventilation strategies: Studies explore utilizing natural ventilation techniques effectively to improve indoor air quality while maintaining thermal comfort, contributing to better sleep.

5. Long-term health implications:

- Cardiovascular and neurological impacts: Emerging research investigates the potential link between chronic exposure to poor air quality and sleep disruptions with increased risk of cardiovascular and neurological diseases.

Cognitive function and mental health: Studies explore the possible connection between poor air quality and sleep disturbances with impaired cognitive function and increased risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

Tips to Improve Air Quality for Better Sleep:

Here are some actionable tips you can implement to enhance your air quality and ultimately, your sleep quality:

Bedroom environment:

- Clean regularly: Vacuum weekly, wash bedding frequently (hot water for allergens), and declutter surfaces to minimize dust mites and allergens.

- Control humidity: Aim for 30-50% humidity to prevent mold growth and dust mite proliferation. Use a dehumidifier or humidifier as needed.

- Invest in allergen-proof covers: Encase your mattress and pillows in allergen-proof covers to further reduce allergen exposure.

- Open windows (weather permitting): Fresh air exchange helps remove stale air and pollutants. Do this during the day or when outdoor air quality is good.

- Consider houseplants: Certain plants like the snake plant and spider plant can help purify the air and add a touch of green to your bedroom.

- Avoid harsh chemicals: Opt for natural cleaning products and air fresheners to minimize chemical exposure.

Air purification:

- Use a HEPA air purifier: This type of purifier is most effective for removing allergens, dust, and other airborne particles. Choose a model appropriate for your room size.

- Replace filters regularly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter replacement to ensure optimal performance.

- Consider activated carbon filters: These can help remove odors and some VOCs that might disrupt sleep.

Additional tips:

- Shower before bed: This can help remove allergens and pollutants from your hair and skin.

- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke: Both can significantly impact air quality and disrupt sleep.

- Limit caffeine and alcohol before bed: These substances can interfere with sleep quality.

- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

- Create a relaxing bedtime routine: This can include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing light stretches.

Remember, improving air quality is just one piece of the puzzle for better sleep. Combining these tips with good sleep hygiene practices can significantly enhance your sleep quality and overall well-being.

Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Risks, Effects, and Treatment

08/20/202401/03/2024 by Ben Trapskin

Sleep disorders come in various forms. Even though a large section of the global population suffers from sleep disorders, they are not of the same kind. While some people have difficulty falling asleep, others have difficulty staying asleep. The reason behind sleep disorders like sleep apnea also varies from one person to another. However, regardless of the type of sleep disorder a person suffers from, it is of utmost importance that the real cause behind the disorder be diagnosed and treated because sleep disorders can wreak havoc on the person’s physical and mental well being. When someone goes without sufficient sleep for days and weeks, it affects the health, memory, concentration, productivity, and immunity.

One of the biggest health conditions that contribute to sleep difficulties is sleep apnea. A large number of people anywhere in the world snore while sleeping and aren’t even aware of it. Waking up with a dry mouth and throat in the middle of the night is also because of the same disorder. Even though an astounding number of people suffer from it worldwide, most of them do not get diagnosed or treated for the same.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is one of the most serious sleep disorders. It is characterized by breathing getting interrupted during sleep throughout the night. Those with this particular sleep disorder repeatedly have their breathing interrupted while they sleep; sometimes hundreds of times throughout the night. This results in snoring, dry mouth and throat, fragmented sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Although few people seem to know about it, apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders in the world. In the US alone, over 22 million people suffer from sleep apnea, but almost 80% of them go undiagnosed. It is most common in adults between 20 and 70 years of age. Research shows a person suffering from sleep apnea can wake up almost 30 times in an hour. As a result, sleep quality suffers, memory and concentration are affected, and productivity is hampered by excessive sleepiness during the day. When this goes on for days and weeks and months, it can also lead to other health disorders.

Types of Sleep Apnea

The basic definition of this sleep disorder is a respiratory problem where the person is unable to get sufficient oxygen because of restricted breathing. But there is not one, but two types of sleep apnea and the courses are also quite different from one another. The two types of disorders are:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea: This is the more common form apnea caused by the air passageway being blocked by the throat muscles, causing restricted breathing. If someone suffers from this type of disease, the greeting may get interrupted or even stop briefly several times why the person is asleep. People with obstructive sleep apnea usually sleep with their mouth open because of the air passageway being blocked by the relaxed throat muscles. When we sleep up all the muscles of our bodies relax. But when the throat muscles relax so much that they block the upper airway, it causes obstructive sleep apnea. The most common symptom of obstructive this particular sleeping disorder is snoring.

Central Sleep Apnea: The other form of this sleep disorder is called central sleep apnea. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, here there is no problem with the respiratory organs. The airway is not obstructed, and there is nothing restricting normal breathing. The problem lies in the brain, which forgets to tell the muscles to breathe. Rather than respiratory disorder, this is a disorder of the part of the brain stem that controls breathing. Central sleep apnea is more common among adults older than 65 years of age and in infants. If not treated, central sleep apnea can also cause death because the breathing can remain stopped for several seconds to minutes.

Obstructive sleep apnea is more common than central sleep apnea but both course the same kind of distress to the sufferer. The worst part is that the person is unaware of the disorder. Even if the person wakes up several times at night, they may not realize what is causing them to wake up. Therefore, in order to diagnose this sneaky sleep disorder, the signs and symptoms and statements from room and bed partners should be taken into consideration.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

As with any sleep disorder, apnea also has a number of reasons behind it. Usually, there are several causes that can cause sleep apnea. Some of the most common reasons for sleep apnea are:

Obesity: One of the most common factors contributing to sleep apnea is excess weight. More than half of all people who suffer from sleep apnea are either overweight or obese. Anyone with a body mass index of above 25 is considered overweight, and someone over 29 is called obese. In overweight or obese people the tissues and muscles are thicker and when they relax they have a higher chance of blocking the airway. Neck circumference of more than 15 centimeters is also a potential cause for obstructive sleep apnea. Obesity has all chances of causing obstructive sleep apnea, but sometimes it also works the other way around. Going without sleep for a long time at a stretch causes hormonal imbalances that can lead to obesity.

Endocrine Disorders: Some disorders of the endocrine system are sometimes linked to obstructive sleep apnea. Hypothyroidism is one of the most important endocrine disorders that can cause obstructive sleep apnea. Postmenopausal women on hormone replacement therapy are also at risk of developing sleep apnea. But the endocrine disorder usually resolves the sleep apnea.

Genetics: One of the most common reasons behind sleep apnea is a genetic predisposition. If people in your immediate family suffered from sleep apnea or had traits like a thick neck, round head or a dental overbite, you are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea. That is the reason why people with a genetic predisposition for sleep apnea should maintain healthy body weight and take other necessary measures to lower the risk of obstructive sleep apnea.

Large Tonsils: Enlarged tonsils or adenoids are often the most common reasons for obstructive sleep apnea in infants and children. The large tonsils or adenoids block the airway and obstruct breathing. Medicines are the most common treatment options for tonsil or adenoid related sleep apnea. In case the tonsils are too big and cannot be remedied by medications, surgery could be done. Removing the blockage from the airway usually resolves sleep apnea in children.

Unhealthy lifestyle: People with unhealthy lifestyles are at a greater risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. Smoking and drinking alcohol make the tongue, and the muscles of the throat relax further and cause obstruction of the air passage. When an unhealthy lifestyle leads to obesity, it worsens obstructive sleep apnea.

Age: it is well known that the prevalence of sleep apnea increases with age. Men over the age of 40 are more susceptible to obstructive sleep apnea. As a person ages, sleep difficulties such as insomnia, trouble staying asleep and shorter sleep duration become more common. Further, if the person is overweight, the risk for sleep apnea increases because of fatty deposits in the in head and neck region, lengthening of the soft palate, and change in the shape of the pharynx.

Neuromuscular Disorders: People with neuromuscular disorders like multiple sclerosis also likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea because the muscles do not function the way they should. Lung restrictions arising out of the disorder contribute significantly to obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep-related difficulties. When people with neuromuscular disorders developed obstructive sleep apnea, the only option is to provide invasive and noninvasive ventilation.

Heart or Kidney Disorders: Those with problems of the heart or the kidneys can also develop obstructive sleep apnea. If not treated in time the sleep apnea can worsen the heart and kidney health.

Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Even though there are many symptoms of sleep apnea, they are most noticeable only to people other than the sufferer. That is why when diagnosing sleep apnea the healthcare practitioner should take the input of the family member or bed partner of the patient.

Some of the most common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea are:

Snoring: Almost everyone snores once in a while when they are in a deep sleep. But if the person is a habitual loud snorer, then there is some serious problem. Snoring is both a problem as well as an annoyance. But those who snore usually refuse to believe when they are told so by others. However, instead of refusing to believe, the person should seek the help of a doctor to rule out sleep apnea.

Shortness of Breath: Because sleep apnea involves interrupted breathing, it is not unusual for the person to wake up several times at night with shortness of breath. Waking up in the middle of the night with a start, feeling like you are unable to breathe is one of the biggest signs of sleep apnea. The person who shares the bed with you will also be able to confirm if they have noticed your breathing stopping and starting again suddenly many times throughout the night.

Sleepiness and Fatigue: Insufficient sleep at night naturally leads to excessive daytime sleepiness, resulting in poor concentration and productivity and foggy memory. Chronic sleep deprivation can also lead to other health disorders such as improper appetite and weight gain.

Headaches and Dryness of Mouth: If you always wake up with a dry mouth and headache you could be suffering from sleep apnea. If there are no other reasons why you could have a dry mouth and throat or a headache every morning you wake up, it is most likely sleep apnea.

Low libido: Sleep apnea and chronic sleep deprivation rob the person of all energy, which leads to low libido. Although low libido also has other reasons sleep apnea is of the most important ones.

Treatment of Sleep Apnea

Usually, he is sleep apnea is caused by any other underlying medical condition such as heart or kidney problems or endocrine disorders; then the underlying medical cause should be remedied first. If hypothyroidism is causing the sleep apnea, then the hypothyroidism needs to be treated first to cure the sleep disorder. If an unhealthy lifestyle is a cause, then lifestyle changes are required to take care of the problem.

If the root cause is respiratory, then depending upon the severity of the condition, a number of treatment options are available. These include:

Breathing Devices: Because sleep apnea is basically a breathing problem, there are breathing devices that are used to correct the condition. The most popular among them is Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) which involves wearing a pressurized mask over the mouth and nose while sleeping, to help keep the airway unblocked by forcing air through it.

Mouthpieces: Mouthguards or mouthpieces are dental devices fitted to the mouth for correcting the tongue, jaw, and soft palate position for clearing the airway. These devices move the jaw forward and prevent resistance in the upper airway. These devices are usually fitted by a dentist according to the shape and structure of the mouth.

Surgery: If non-invasive means aren’t successful, surgery needs to be done to cure sleep apnea. Sleep apnea surgery is called the process of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, which is used to minimize the symptoms of the disorder. Although the surgery is successful at removing the tissue from the airway, it also has side effects like pain and bleeding. Laser surgery is also available, which involves shortening the soft palate with a laser beam.

Myofunctional Therapy: This is a facial therapy for the muscles of the tongue, throat, and face to reduce snoring and minimize the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. In more serious cases, this may not be too helpful.

The first step in treating sleep apnea is the right diagnosis. After that, several treatment options could be tried to find the best fit for the patient.

If you or someone you know needs the above information handy, feel free to save, share or email the infographic below.

Can Diabetes Cause Sleep Problems?

08/19/202402/13/2020 by Ben Trapskin

Most people are aware that their medical history, along with what they eat and how much they weigh, can create a risk of getting Type-2 diabetes. But what they are unaware of is that such a health problem can interfere with their normal sleep routine. Not only sleep can affect the blood sugar levels but it is also true the other way round. Apart from the usual problems associated with getting a good night’s rest such as sleep apnea, hypos at night, and being overweight, having high blood sugar levels can also have a similar impact.

People who have blood sugar levels that are excessively high or low can experience tiredness throughout the day. Insomnia and lethargy are two common symptoms of blood sugar though it is not necessary that people who are suffering from sleeplessness and lethargy are diabetic.

How Does Diabetes Have Impact on the Ability to Sleep?

Several research studies over the years have established a clear connection between diabetes and sleep problems. Sleep disturbance not only indicates the difficulty in falling asleep but also staying asleep or sleeping too much. While diabetes does not necessarily mean that your normal sleeping habits will be impacted, such a health condition is likely to interfere with your night’s rest. Some of the symptoms include –

People with high blood sugar levels are prone to frequent urination. This will impact the deep sleep making the person get up frequently for using the bathroom.
When the body contains extra glucose, it draws excess water from the tissues. This will make you feel dehydrated forcing you to get up in the middle of your sleep for a glass of water.
The common symptoms of dizziness, sweating, and shakiness can affect your normal sleep routine.

Different Sleep Disorders and Their Connection With Diabetes

Although tossing and turning may be a common symptom among people with diabetes problems, there might be a separate medical condition that might be breeding underneath. Some of the commonly experienced sleep disorders among people are mainly the underlying cause of diabetes.

Insomnia

This sleep disorder is characterized by trouble falling and staying asleep. You are more at risk of experiencing insomnia if you have high glucose levels with high stress. Insomnia patients are known to experience several kinds of sleep disruptions, like –

Problem falling asleep;
Difficulty in staying asleep;
Waking up early;
Waking up tired

Taking any OTC medication won’t solve the issue. Instead, try to identify the root cause of the problem, such as experiencing any family issues or working in a high-stress environment. Seek medical advice from a healthcare practitioner to determine and cure the root cause of such defects.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

This is the most common disorder among people with diabetes problems, with almost 86 percent of people with diabetes having obstructive sleep apnea. The OSA is a medical condition that is characterized by frequently interrupted breathing while sleeping. People with such problems experience fully or partially blocked airways. Such a sleep disorder is harmful to both sleep quantity and sleep quality.

Most people having OSA experience frequent awakenings with fragmented and restless sleep. In addition, it also develops a higher risk of getting Type-2 diabetes and an increased risk for cardiovascular problems.

Nocturnal Hypoglycemia

Low glucose levels in the blood, or hypoglycemia, can have an adverse impact on the quality of your sleep. People who are taking blood sugar medications or insulin might be at risk of getting low blood sugar. Overnight fall of blood sugar levels can disrupt your usual sleep pattern and make it difficult for you to wake up in the morning and feel tired throughout the day. One of the most common symptoms of nocturnal hypoglycemia is waking up sweating in the middle of the night.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Also known as the Ekbom Syndrome, this sleep disorder is characterized by uncomfortable and unpleasant feelings in the legs, causing the person to move the legs to reduce such sensation. The sleeper may experience a burning sensation or as if insects were crawling over the legs. Such a syndrome may also be an indication of the presence of peripheral neuropathy. Such a condition is often associated with a lack of diabetes control which can be treated by improving the blood glucose levels.

Post Meal Lethargy or Daytime Tiredness

A feeling of tiredness throughout the day, particularly during the morning period and after meals can often be a result of high blood sugar levels. If you happen to experience such problems, get a blood sugar test done to check any correlation between the blood sugar count and such feelings of tiredness. This could probably be a result of low blood sugar levels, especially if you are taking insulin or is at risk of having hypoglycemia.

Some Common Causes of Sleep Disruption

The dysfunction of circadian rhythm due to the underlying cause of diabetes can also disrupt the metabolic hormones. Some of the common symptoms associated with sleep disruption problems include –

Headaches: Both low and high blood sugar count can develop headache problems making it hard to sleep.

Sweating: This is a sign of low blood sugar levels that can prevent you from falling asleep.

Irritability and Anxiety: Low levels of blood sugar can trigger irritability and anxiousness. This may be a prime cause of restless sleep and insomnia. Such people may also experience a racing heartbeat with dizziness that interferes with their ability to fall asleep.

Increased thirst: Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia is known to contract dehydration problems causing you to wake frequently and difficult to fall asleep.

The Bottom Line

If you are experiencing persistent sleep problems, consider testing your blood sugar levels as it might be the underlying cause of such an effect. In such a situation, you need to consult a healthcare practitioner to help you effectively manage and prevent the recurrence of such problems and keep your blood sugar count to normal. It may take about a week or two to observe the changes, so make sure to follow a regular routine.

How to Sleep with a Cold?

08/18/202402/12/2020 by Ben Trapskin

The chilly winter months are known to breed flu, common cold, and other annoying infections and viruses. If you are one of those unlucky ones to contract one or more of these winter illnesses, you know how difficult it is to get some sound sleep while you are constantly getting those sniffles and coughs. Well, there are some simple solutions to get a peaceful night’s sleep while battling with common cold and cough.

Take a Steamy Hot Bath

Taking hot steam in the shower can prove to be effective in opening your nasal passages while loosening the dried mucous and cleaning the airways. It is also a good way to relax and wind down before hitting the bed. The body becomes cold when you have a cold, and a steamy shower can help you to energize and reduce the symptoms of a blocked nose and running sinuses while making the nasal muscles relaxed.

Sip Some Tea with Honey

Just like a bowl of hot soup, a hot beverage can also loosen the mucus from your sinuses. But not all hot beverages will give out the same results as some hot tea with honey. Adding honey to tea not only helps in soothing a sore throat but can also prove to be effective as a cough suppressant to help you get rid of that sore throat.

A Humidifier or Vaporizer Can Work Wonders

Dry air and the cold season go hand in hand. Under such weather conditions, a good vaporizer or humidifier can add the required moisture into the air and soothe the sinuses. But it is necessary to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid making it the breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Change the water daily and clean the tank every couple of days to keep it clean. If there is a child inside the room, use a cool-mist vaporizer as warm mist units can cause burns to children who get too close to it.

Maintain an Optimal Sleep Environment

Just because you have a cold, don’t be tempted to overheat the room. Keep the room temperature at normal levels and stack up blankets so that you can remove them if you begin to overheat. It is also important to maintain the humidity of the room. Combine that with a good humidifier and you are sure to get a problem-free sleep at night.

Reconsider Your Sleep Position

Some people think that stacking an extra pillow under their head can provide relief from the cold and flu and help them get better sleep. But this can make the situation even worse by causing the head to sag forward and worsening the breathing problem. Instead, you can use a foam wedge that will help to raise your upper body, letting the nasal packages drain. Don’t lay on your back as it may worsen postnasal drip. Sleep on the side opposite to that of your blocked nose.

Stay Hydrated

Depriving the body of adequate fluid can make your nasal cavities dry. It is necessary to keep the body well-hydrated so that the entire respiratory system stays wet and prevent any breathing problems. You can also sip a hot caffeine-free beverage to give your throat some relief during bedtime. It will provide you with a short relief period during which you can slip off to slumber.

Try Out Some Over-the-Counter Remedies

Whether you are feeling hot, stuffy, and achy or any uneasiness due to cough and cold, you can always reach out for some over-the-counter medications. If the condition is severe, consider seeking medical advice from a doctor or an ear and teeth specialist. Some medications can escalate the problem if not taken at the right dosage. You can also ask a pharmacist to get the right solution for your cough, cold, or sinus problem.

Prepare Yourself for the Night’s Sleep

If you find yourself maintaining a relaxed posture, tossing and turning in bed, get out of your bed, and engage in some other activity. You can read a book by dimming the room lights or listen to some soothing music. Get into some low-intensity activity unless you feel sleepy. Don’t go to bed until you are feeling sleepy to promote healthier sleep habits throughout the year.

Things to Avoid

Besides the effective tips for sleeping with a cold, there are some don’ts that you should keep in mind to avoid making the situation even more complicated.

Refrain from drinking alcohol as it will dry out your breathing passage and making it difficult for you to breathe. Also, it can swell up your sinuses and react adversely with your cold and flu problems.
Don’t engage in any high-intensity activity as it will interfere with your sleeping routine and make it difficult for you to sleep.
You cannot force yourself to sleep. So, don’t lie down forcefully expecting that sleep will come off naturally. Read a book or listen to some soothing music.
Don’t use any gadget or digital device that will impact the release of melatonin by the body. Devices that are known to emit blue light can severely interfere with your sleep routine.
Many people think that overheating the room will help them combat the common cold and get a better night’s sleep. But that is a complete myth as it might lead to night sweat and make you wake up in the middle of your sleep. Maintain normal room temperature to set the stage for a relaxed night’s sleep.

Conclusion

The good news is that common cold and flu will not last for more than a few days, or at most a week. Although they are irritating and uncomfortable, they are your on-and-off companion. Just make sure that you take some precautionary measures and necessary steps to help you combat the irritation when they occur. It will improve your health condition and help you to get rid of such problems quickly for a calm and relaxed night’s sleep.

CBD Oil Benefits – The Complete Guide

08/20/202411/30/2019 by Ben Trapskin

CBD Oil has come under the spotlight, especially in the US, in recent times and has been touted for its many health benefits. Its association with marijuana, however, is still perceived negatively by many who ergo keep this wonderful oil at bay. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of CBD oil benefits and the science behind it. Without any further ado, let’s get started.

CBD Oil Benefits for Diabetes and Obesity

A whopping 100 million adults in the US are now officially either diabetic or pre-diabetic, and the epidemic seems to be creeping into minors as well. A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association has revealed that over 32% of American men and over 35% of American women are obese (more than just overweight). While everyone has a row about whether a plant-based diet is a way to go or a ketogenic diet is truly what can help reverse type 2 diabetics, we should not overlook CBD oil benefits for both diabetes and obesity. So, what do the studies say?

A 2011 American Journal of Epidemiology study found that rates of obesity in a sample group as large as 52,000 cannabis users were only 1/3^rd the prevalent rates in the general population.
Another study found that the use of CBD resulted in a lowering of the diabetes incidence rate in mice.
Research supports that CBD aides in weight loss by acting as a catalyst in the conversion of white fat into brown fat.

Improved Cholesterol Profile and Reduced Risk of Heart Disease

A Staggering 1 in 4 deaths in the US is due to heart disease. Again, while lifestyle, diet and genetic predisposition are some of the main factors that determine your risk of a heart attack or heart disease. There are certainly other things along the way that can either add to the risk or take away from it. Thankfully, CBD oil benefits include a reduction in the risk of heart disease and also an improved cholesterol profile as studies have concluded.

A study from 2013 concluded that CBD oil users had a higher level of good cholesterol in their blood than their counterparts.
More studies also provide evidence to support that endocannabinoid signaling plays a crucial role in the pathology of atherogenesis.
Initial clinical studies on animals also proved that CBD oil in low orally ingested doses had a cardioprotective effect during the induction of a heart attack.

Lowered Risk of Cancer

CBD oil benefits are several, but there is a growing amount of evidence which is starting to suggest that it might have some tumor-fighting properties as well.

Animal trials conducted in 2012 suggests that animals that were medicated with CBD oil actually responded positively in terms of a reduction in the likelihood of developing colon cancer. These animals were deliberately given carcinogens for the sake of the test.
Numerous studies have already shown that THC doesn’t only prevent tumors but also helps in preventing them in the first place.
A 2015 data analysis done by scientists where the records of 84,000 male patients revealed that patients that had used cannabis, and not tobacco had a 45% lower bladder cancer rate than the other group.

Mental Health Benefits

CBD oil and cannabinoids, in general, are neuroprotective, which means that they play a vital role in regulating brain health. One of the ways in which CBD oil does this is by removal of damaged cell, and another is through improved efficiency of mitochondria. Furthermore, CBD Oil is also said to reduce glutamate toxicity which is responsible for over firing of brain cells by over – stimulation which causes pre – mature cell death.

A recent study suggests that CBD oil benefits include having an anti-inflammatory effect on the brain.
Another study, which was done in 2008, in lower dosages, CBD oil actually stimulated the birth and development of new brain cells, even in older brains.
CBD oil benefits the brain and protects against Alzheimer’s and other nerve-related degenerative diseases.

Protection Against Bone Disease

The bone that is aging is replaced by the new bone substrate, and the rate at which this happens annually is approximately 10% in humans. This process is natural and critical for strong, healthy bones and skeletal framework altogether. There are numerous CBD oil benefits when it comes to healthy bones in humans.

A study using CBD oil showed that CBD oil actually reduced the build-up for destructive bone compounds that work by destroying bone-building compounds.
CBD explicitly also stimulates the process of healing of broken bones at an accelerated rate, as per another study.
Another CBD oil benefit is protection against recurring fracture in a bone that has already been fractured once and is vulnerable to another. This study revealed that fractured and healed bones in the CBD focus group were 35% stronger, on average, that the non – CBD counterpart.

Fights Skin Ailments and Helps Keep Skin Healthy

In human physiology, the skin is the organ with the single highest concentration of CB2 receptors. CBD oil can literally be applied topically on the skin, and there are a multitude of CBD oil benefits for the skin when it is used this way.

It helps repair against free radical damage, reverse free radical damage and could also prevent free radical damage on the skin to a certain extent as per studies.
It can help in the proper regulation of oil from the sebaceous glands of the skin
CBD oil based topical creams and oils are already popular products for the treatment of skin conditions such as acne and even psoriasis.

Worry not, Cannabis when used topically cannot be psychoactive, and so you will not experience any “high.”

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of CBD

Several studies have concluded that CBD oil has anti-inflammatory benefits. It does this by way of engaging with the Endocannabinoid system across all organs of the human body and assists in bring down inflammation. Inflammation is the cause of a wide range of diseases and the fact that CBD oil benefits include anti-inflammatory properties make it even more of a holistic medicine than initially thought.

Reducing Cortisol

Cortisol is the stress hormone, and in this day and age, it is usually elevated in the average American. The plant has been used from centuries ago to reduce anxiety and calm down people. However, it must be noted that some studies have shown that in certain patients, Cannabis can have a reverse effect and actually increase anxiety and even lead to panic attacks. In general, CBD oil is shown to reduce stress-related activity in the Limbic and Paralimbic parts of the brain directly. Other better – known CBD oil benefits, include the treatment of Insomnia and other sleep disorders and also to alleviate pain naturally, it is said to be one of the most effective treatments. At Yawnder, its our constant endeavor to provide our readers with up to date information that is accurate and easy to digest. Apart from the informative article above, we have also developed an infographic that you can share on social media. Feel free to share.

Latest Research on the Benefits of CBD Oil

The research landscape for CBD oil is constantly evolving, with new studies exploring its potential benefits for various conditions. Here are some highlights from recent findings:

Neurological Disorders:

Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A 2022 study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry found that nabiximols spray (containing both CBD and THC) significantly reduced pain and muscle spasticity in people with MS compared to placebo.
Alzheimer’s Disease: A 2023 preclinical study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease suggests CBD may protect against tau protein aggregation, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, but further research in humans is needed.

Mental Health:

Anxiety and Depression: A 2023 review in the journal Depression and Anxiety found substantial evidence for CBD’s effectiveness in reducing anxiety, particularly social anxiety disorder. However, research on depression benefits remains preliminary.
Substance Use Disorders: A 2023 study in the American Journal of Psychiatry showed CBD significantly reduced heroin users’ cue-induced cravings and withdrawal anxiety, suggesting potential in treatment programs.

Other Promising Areas:

Skin Health: A 2023 review in the journal Molecules highlighted CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, indicating potential for acne treatment and wound healing.
Epilepsy: Ongoing research continues to explore the effectiveness of CBD oil for certain types of epilepsy, with Epidiolex being the first FDA-approved CBD medication for specific seizure disorders.

Important Cautions:

Despite promising findings, further research is needed for most conditions to reach definitive conclusions about CBD’s effectiveness and long-term safety.
Quality and dosage variability in CBD products remains a concern. Consulting a healthcare professional before using CBD is crucial, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.

Finding the Latest Research:

Utilize reputable databases like PubMed and Google Scholar to access recent research articles.
Follow credible news sources specializing in health and science reporting on CBD findings.
Look for research institutions studying CBD and their published scientific papers.

Remember, interpreting scientific research can be complex. When evaluating studies, consider factors like sample size, methodology, and potential limitations. If you have any questions about the research or CBD use, talk to a qualified healthcare professional.

Lack of Sleep and its Effects on Your Brain

08/24/202405/16/2019 by Ben Trapskin

How does lack of sleep effects your brain in short term? Likewise, what happens to our brains when we don’t get adequate sleep for a prolonged period?

Everybody knows that sleep is essential for our bodies and brains to function at their best. Otherwise, why would we be spending one third of our lives doing it? Chronic sleep deprivation puts us at a higher risk of various disorders and long term health conditions such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, to name just a few.

It has also been amply demonstrated that the lack of sleep has a negative affect on our cognitive performance. At the cognitive level, the lack of sleep impairs our ability to focus, make judgements, consolidate information and learn new things. In the words of Dr Michael Breus, The Sleep Doctor, “It’s difficult to identify a cognitive skill that isn’t affected by sleep, and compromised by sleep deprivation.”

Yet, while the effect of sleep and the lack of it on our cognitive performance is very well documented, much less is still known about how exactly sleep affects the brain on the cellular level.

However, as brain science rapidly advances, more and more studies appear that begin to fill that gap. Here are four of the most prominent studies of recent years and their findings that looked closely at our sleep deprived brains.

Sleep Allows Your Brain Cells To Repair Themselves

A study published earlier this year in Nature Communications found that sleep is essential for the brain’s ability to repair itself. More specifically, scientists found that during sleep essential DNA repair processes take place in the brain.

In the course of the study, the researchers from Bar-Ilan University observed zebrafish, species that are characterized by having transparent heads. With the use of a powerful microscope, the researchers were able to observe the brain of the zebrafish during sleeping and waking, and took time-lapsed images of individual neurons. They were then able to see that during sleep the process of DNA repair kicked off in their brains, reversing the DNA damage accumulated during the day.

According to the researchers, human brain cells also regularly accumulate DNA damage not only from exposure to radiation and other undesirable conditions but also as a result of the normal brain activity. Sleep allows for these cells to be repaired.

One of the study’s authors, Professor Lior Applebaum, explained why this complicated process takes place while we sleep, by comparing it to repairing potholes in the road. Speaking to Independent, he said: “Roads accumulate wear and tear, especially during daytime rush hours, and it is most convenient and efficient to fix them at night, when there is light traffic.”

The researchers think that this finding might explain the essential role of sleep for all animals with neural system including humans.

Sleep Deprivation Kills Your Brain Cells

In a study that was published in 2014 in the Journal of Neuroscience researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine made an alarming discovery that lack of sleep can result in irreversible loss of brain neurons.

The study was conducted on mice, whose brain is known to be surprisingly similar to the human brain. The mice were put on a schedule similar to the one that is used by people who work night shifts or long hours. In each 24 hour period, the mice got only 4 to 5 hours of sleep.

The results were astounding. After just three day of this schedule, the sleep-deprived mice lost 25% of brain cells in part of the brain stem, the damage that seemed to be irreversible.

According to the study’s authors, because of the similarity between the brains of mice and humans, it is very likely that the human brain suffers from the same loss of neurons when deprived of adequate sleep. This is something that researchers planned to further investigate by conducting autopsies of shift workers.

Sleep Helps Brain ‘Detox’

Another study published in Science around the same time, found that during sleep a sort of detox process takes place in your brain, as it gets rid of harmful waste products, including some that have been linked to Alzheimer’s and dementia.

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) who used high-tech imaging to look into the brains of mice and found that their brains behaved very differently when awake and asleep. Specifically, the waste removal process happened ten times faster when the mice were sleeping, flushing out among other things the toxic protein amyloid-beta that is associated with Alzheimer’s.

The clean up process observed by the researchers happens with the help of the cerebrospinal fluid that flows through the spaces between neurons flushing waste into the circulatory system. During sleep, the researchers found, brain cells contract, leaving more space for the cerebrospinal fluid to do its job a lot more effectively.

Sleep Enables Brain Cells to Communicate Effectively

In a fourth study on brain and sleep published recently in Nature Medicine, researchers found neurological explanation to the mental sluggishness that is so familiar to any of us who’ve ever had to take an exam, drive a car or perform any other cognitively demanding activity while sleep deprived. Specifically, the study authors found that lack of sleep severely impairs the ability of brain cells to communicate effectively.

In the study, 12 participants who were preparing to undergo surgery for epilepsy (unrelated to the study) had electrodes implanted into their brains and were asked to stay up the entire night. Several times throughout the night, researchers asked them to categorize images of faces, places and animals as fast as possible. They noticed that as people got drowsier, their reactions got slower. The researchers monitored the brain activity at the same time, paying particular attention to neurons in the temporal lobe, which regulates visual perception and memory. They were able to see that the slowed down response time was due to the less effective communication between their brain cells.

One of the study’s authors, Dr. Itzhak Fried, a professor of neurosurgery at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) explained in a statement: “We discovered that starving the body of sleep also robs neurons of the ability to function properly. This paves the way for cognitive lapses in how we perceive and react to the world around us.”

This of course has direct consequences in everyday activities such as driving, and thus can have a fatal affect. “Severe fatigue exerts a similar influence on the brain to drinking too much,” Fried said. “Yet no legal or medical standards exist for identifying overtired drivers on the road the same way we target drunk drivers.”

Best White Noise Machines – 2019 Edition

08/19/202405/14/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Everyone enjoys a quiet, undisturbed sleep every night; not everyone is fortunate enough to have that luxury. Sleep is one of those things that suffer from the worst distractions and disturbances. Sleep does not require focus or concentration, and yet, a vast number of people around the world suffers from poor sleep quality because of various distractions. Among the biggest distractions to sleep are environmental noises. From late night traffic to loud music to noisy neighbors, a number of environmental factors can rob us of the restful sleep that we require every night.

Various studies have found that those who live in a noisy environment or neighborhood are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders. Unfortunately, most urban people tend to live in noisy neighborhoods, where too many people live in close proximity, and the traffic can get unbearable at times. There are people who can sleep through a tornado, but there are others who don’t have that ability. If you are sensitive to ambient noises, you can go for nights at a stretch without proper sleep. And not getting sufficient sleep for a prolonged period can result in various health problems, affect mood and appetite and negatively impact productivity and concentration. The end result is that your health, work, and social life suffer, all because of insufficient sleep.

This is the reason why white noise machines are slowly becoming popular around the world. The device earlier meant for babies is now used by a large number of adults to fall asleep more easily.

How White Noise Helps?

Ambient noises like the sound of traffic can seem like it’s beyond your control, but there are things you can do to minimize the impact such noises have on your sleep. You can try putting up thick curtains or use soundproof glass for your windows, but the best way to manage environmental noise is by drowning them out. And nothing drowns out noise better than some other kind of noise.

‘White noise’ is an umbrella term for any type of sound that’s capable of drowning out background noises. When it comes to white noise machines, it is generally in the form of soothing or repetitive sounds. Because of its ability to drown out disruptive sounds and help people fall asleep easily, white noise is considered a sleep aid. Those who live in a noisy environment or travel frequently use white noise machines to fall asleep at night. Some models are designed for adult use while some are meant for babies and little kids.

Even till a few years ago, the use of a white noise machine wasn’t very common, but because a large number of people face sleep disturbances from environmental noise, they now use a sound machine to fall asleep every night. A wide range of white noise machines are available at different price points, while the higher-end models come with various high-tech features.

Types of White Noise

There are various types of white noise that are used to drown out distracting environmental sounds. White noise is not only supposed to drown out distracting environmental noises but also be soothing enough to help the person fall asleep. A sound machine is like a small speaker that can be set on your bedside table to play soft, soothing sounds to help you fall asleep. A sound machine usually comes with various types of prerecorded sounds, such as the sound of crickets, rainfall, ocean waves, fan, or instrumental music like the piano.

You can choose the type of white noise according to your personal preference. Some people prefer the repetitive noise of the fan, while others prefer the soothing sound of rainfall. And there are those that prefer soft, soothing music instead of sounds.

A white noise machine also comes with headphones sometimes, for use when there are other people in the room that can be distracted by the sound machine. The volume after sound can be set according to preference.

There are numerous sound machines available today, from small portable ones to headphones to larger devices that are not very portable. Given all the different options, it can be hard to choose one for your needs.

If you’re more comfortable with the sound of the fan, then you should choose white noise machines that specialize in fan sounds. If you prefer nature sounds, then there are sound machines specializing in those. Volume adjustment and portability are also factors that go into determining the right sound machine. White noise devices usually come with a timer that automatically stops the sound after a certain time. This ensures the device doesn’t continue to play after you have fallen asleep.

However, keep in mind that sound machines are great at drowning out all noises, including the ones that you should hear (crying child, fire alarm, doorbell, morning alarm, etc.). Therefore, even when you use a sound machine to drown out distracting noises, make sure it doesn’t make you oblivious to your surroundings.

Is White Noise Harmful?

No long term study has been made on the effects of white noise, but the benefits certainly outweigh the downsides. In one study, it was found that playing white noise in intensive care units helped drown out the disturbing and distracting noises and reduce episodes of wakefulness in patients.

But it must also be noted that white noise is noise after all, and should be used in moderation.

Whether you are listening to the white noise via speakers or headphones, remember to keep the volume at a comfortable level to prevent hurting your ears. It is also important to try other methods of drowning out environmental noises because white noise machines can be habit-forming.

When it comes to babies or children, sound machines can be harmful if the noise level is above

85 decibels. In children, a sound machine can turn into a habit if it is used every time to help them fall asleep. When a child falls asleep to a sound machine every night, it can be hard for them to sleep without it.

White Noise Machine Reviews

Because the sound machine market is flooded with a variety of products, it can often be hard to know what to choose. Should you choose the basic devices or the high-end ones with the latest features? Even the most basic sound machines are capable of performing the function of noise isolation and cancellation, providing the user with quality sleep. But if you want a bevy of features, you will have to go higher in the price range.

To make a choice easier for customers, we have compiled a list of the top-rated sound machines in the market right now. They range from basic to high-end and suit both adults, children, and babies.

Sound + Sleep

This is one of the most popular sound machines in the market today, not only because of its budget pricing but also because of the various features it comes loaded with. Besides being a high-fidelity sound machine that helps you sleep well at night, this devices comes with the option to record your own sounds. You also have the option to choose from white, pink, and brown noise, with a large selection of natural and ambient sounds as well. You can choose up to 30 sounds in this device.

One of the biggest problems for people is to turn off the machine when they fall asleep. The Sound + Sleep machine solves that problem by including a noise-reduction timer, which can be set to 30-, 60-, 90-, and 120-minute increments. This gradually lowers the volume while enhancing the noise blocking experience. Even if you fall asleep and don’t remember to turn off the sound, the machine will automatically lower the volume. The device also comes with a headphone jack.

The Sound + Sleep white noise machine is small and compact, at only five inches long and less than two pounds in weight. Besides the portability, the machine also comes with a one-year warranty. The Sound + Sleep machine retails for $62 online.

Pros

Great for those who like to sleep to white, pink, or brown noise
Includes nature sounds as well as ambient sounds (such as the fan)
Includes headphone jack
The gradual lowering of volume
One year warranty

Cons

Slightly steep price

Shop Sound + Sleep

Big Red Rooster

Most people do not want to spend a ton of money on a white noise machine. But a lot of white noise machines come for at least $40, which can be expensive for a lot of people. However, the Big Red Rooster is available for $20, which is half the price of most quality sound machines. Despite the low price, this device offers the same quality as many higher-priced models. The features include a white noise option, and five natural sounds, including summer night, brook, rain, thunder, and ocean. There’s also an option for a sleep timer for up to one hour with 15-minute increments. This white noise machine is small and compact and weighs less than 10 ounces.

Pros

Basic machine for those who want only white noise
Great for those who love natural sounds
Ideal size for traveling with

Cons

No high-end features

Shop the Big Red Rooster

Marpac Dohm

This is one of the oldest sound machines in the market, first introduced in the market as ‘Sleep-Mate’ in 1960. If you’re looking for a fan-based white noise machine, this one is for you. Not only is this machine simple and basic, but also affordable. It doesn’t have a timer so you can run it all night long. You can adjust the volume and tone settings.

The Dohm also has a child version called Dohm for Baby, which is much similar to the Dohm Classic. The devices come with a 101-night sleep trial and a one-year warranty, as well as free shipping within the U.S.

Pros

Good for those who use white noise
Great for those who run the machine all night
Value-based device

Cons

Very basic device
No advanced features
Slightly expensive

Shop the Marpac Dohm

Sound Oasis S-5000

If you’re willing to spend more than a $100 on a sound machine, then the S-5000 Sound Oasis is your pick. Along with a steep price tag, the device also comes with a wide range of sound selections. There are a total of 145 different sounds that you can mix with 24 sound profiles to create your own customized sounds. The two speakers provide excellent sound quality, and also includes a headphone jack.

Other features of this high-end sound machine are an adjustable alarm clock, sleep timer, nap timer, and international AM/FM radio and dual voltage adapter. The machine is priced at $200 and has a one-year warranty.

Pros

Great for those who want an extensive sound library
God for international travelers
Includes a wide array of features

Cons

Steep price

Shop Sound Oasis

Hatch Baby Rest

Babies and toddlers wake up very easily at even the slightest noise. They also take a long time to fall asleep unless they are soothed. This is why a white noise machine is helpful in making babies and toddlers fall asleep faster and more easily. If you’re looking for a white noise machine for your child, the Rest from Hatch Baby is a complete white noise solution designed for babies and toddlers. It combines light and sound therapy and is accessible via a smartphone app. With the combination of light images and sounds, the device creates a soothing environment for the child.

The device is useful for children of various ages. While the white noise is ideal for soothing the child, the nightlight helps toddlers fall to sleep easily, and the ‘time-to-rise’ alarm is perfect for school-going kids. This product retails online and comes with a one-year warranty.

Pros

An ideal device for parents with babies, infants or toddlers
Helps soothe children who cannot sleep in the dark
Smartphone accessible device doesn’t require parents to go into the child’s room to turn off the device
Combination of light and sound

Cons

Collects a ton of private information
No battery option

Shop Hatch Baby Rest

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

08/19/202403/14/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Have you ever spent a night at a cheap bed & breakfast, only to be kept awake the whole time by itchy bites? Or that time at grandma’s house when you had to snooze in your sleeping bag because something wouldn’t stop biting you at night? Did you realize where the bites were coming from? Yes, they were bed bugs. These little creatures that are often microscopic to the naked eye can make life a living hell. If you have experienced itchy bites when lying in bed, or have actually seen bed bugs in the crevices and seams of your mattress, then it is a problem that you will have to fix. Otherwise, you can go months with these pesky little creatures ruining your sleep.

A lot of people tend to think that bed bugs are a result of an unclean home. But despite keeping your house spanking clean all the time you may be surprised to find bed bugs in your mattress or other upholstered furniture. Bed bugs are quite a nuisance. If your couches, cushions and upholstered furniture have bed bugs in them, it is repulsive enough to keep guests and visitors away from your house. Most importantly, it can make sleeping a nightmare.

This is why the moment you realize your bed or mattress could have bed bugs; you should take the right measures to get rid of the problem. The longer you let the bedbugs remain the more they are going to spread.

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are parasitic creatures, often microscopic to the naked eye. They are cold bed bugs because they live and breed in soft, upholstered surfaces, like mattresses cushions carpets, etc. Unlike dust mites, it is not normal for bed bugs to be present in houses. Dust mites are practically unavoidable and are present virtually everywhere. But bed bugs are not present in every place, which means it is not normal to have them around. If you know you have bed bugs in your house, you should not put up with the nuisance.

Bed bugs are normally found in beddings and mattresses because that is where they can find humans and pets to feed on. They also live in these surfaces and rapidly multiply. Bed bugs can also be found in other areas such as hard to reach crevices, nooks and crannies, under carpets, and even clothing.

The worst thing about bedbugs is that they can enter your home from just one contaminated item, such as an infested piece of clothing. It does not matter how clean your house is; if even one-bed bug enters the place, it will not take long at all to multiply into thousands. If you sleep in a bed bug infestation hotel room or travel on a train or a cruise, the bedbugs you pick up from there can infest your house in a matter of days. Second-hand pieces of furniture can also bring bed bugs into your house.

Because they are parasites, bed bugs are very strong. They can also penetrate through the walls of your house; so if there is a bed bug infestation in your neighbor’s house, your apartment or house will also be affected. Bed bugs usually feed on the blood of humans and other animals, but they can go months without needing to feed, making it hard to eradicate them. A crowded neighborhood or a place with too many humans living in close proximity also leads to bed bugs infestation.

Bed bugs do not spread diseases, but their bites are itchy and uncomfortable. Bed bug bites can also cause skin rashes.

Getting Rid of Bed Bugs – Step-by-Step Instructions

If your bed has been infested by bed bugs, your best solution would be to call pest control and take care of the problem. But if you want to do it yourself, fan following the next few steps should make the job easier:

Step 1: Strip your bed off the sheets and remove all pillowcases and covers. Do not leave them lying around because that will lead to contamination. Put these items in a garbage bag and tightly steal them while taking them to the washer. Wash them thoroughly in hot water.

Step 2: Do not attempt to do anything with the pillows. Simply throw them out. Next, thoroughly vacuum the mattress, making sure to get the seams, crevices and other nooks and corners where bed bugs hide. Do not empty the vacuum cleaner bag inside the house. Empty it outside the house and thoroughly clean the vacuum container to make sure no bed bug can make its way back to the house.

Step 3: For the maximum peace of mind it is wise to throw out the mattress and buy a new one. This will make sure that there are no bed bugs remaining in the house and also spare you the trouble of cleaning the entire mattress and then bug proofing it. A mattress with a removable cover is the best choice because the mattress becomes easier to clean. A removable cover also prevents the bed bugs from entering the mattress. However, if you do not want to purchase a new mattress, then read on for the next steps.

Step 4: To bug proof your bed, put your mattress in a bed bug proof cover. These highly specialized mattress protectors cover the entire mattress with a special material that the bugs are unable to bite through. This removable cover has a zipper that closes so snug that not even one bug can make its way through it. You have to keep on this cover for at least a year to make sure that all the bugs and the eggs have died.

Step 5: Do not forget to kill any bed bugs on the bed frame, cracks, and joints of the bed. If using pesticide, be careful with it and use it according to the instructions on the label. Push the bed away from the wall and encase the feet of the bed in bed bug interceptor cups. These cups have pesticide in them that kill any bug that attempts to climb up the bed. Make sure the sheets, bed skirt or covers don’t touch the floor. Vacuum the floor to remove all traces of bugs.

Eradicating bedbugs is a daunting task. If all else fails, it’s time to call pest control.

What Is Sleep Paralysis?

02/07/202502/26/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Sleep is one of the most mysterious phenomena in living beings, and it has intrigued since the dawn of civilization. Although science has been able to understand much of the processes in living beings, sleep is still mostly a mystery. Much of this is because we aren’t conscious when sleep happens and it’s impossible to tell what happened while we were sleeping after we wake up. For years, scientists have been studying sleep and associated phenomenons like sleep paralysis and have also managed to figure out a lot about what happens in the brain and the body when a person is asleep. However, some aspects of sleep are yet to be demystified, and one of them is the REM stage.

The final of the four stages of sleep is called the Rapid Eye Movement stage because the brain is active in this phase and the eyes move rapidly behind closed eyelids. Many interesting things happen during this stage. Dreams, for instance, have intrigued both scientists and the common man for the longest time, and they happen during the REM phase. When dreams happen, the brain is active, but the body is still inactive, in a state of paralysis, to prevent it from acting out the dreams. Another mysterious phenomenon is linked to the REM stage, and this is sleep paralysis.

Decoding Sleep Paralysis?

Have you ever woken up from sleep, only to find that you couldn’t move or talk or get out of bed for a few moments? That’s what is sleep paralysis. In ancient times, it was linked to supernatural creatures. When the episode occurs, everyone thought that is supernatural creature had possessed him. This made sleep paralysis a very scary phenomenon for everyone.

The condition was also termed a type of nightmare. But after a lot of scientific research, it is now known that the condition is nothing but being mentally aware while still asleep. This can happen either during falling asleep or waking up. The REM stage is the most complicated phenomenon associated with sleep, mainly because the brain becomes active and is conscious enough to experience life-like visions in the form of dreams, but the body is still inactive. Although the cause of sleep paralysis has been learned, the reason behind it still remains unclear.

What Causes Sleep Paralysis?

Although science is still unsure about the exact cause of sleep paralysis, global folklore has had explanations for centuries. These include visits from supernatural beings like ghosts, witches, and demons. In recent cases in the US, sleep paralysis has also been called “alien abductions.”

These associations to supernatural activity make sense because during sleep paralysis many people experience pressure on the chest, the feeling of being secretly watched by an intruder, and other hallucinations. However, none of these actually happen. These are only sensory perceptions because the brain is still in the REM phase and the body is inactive. This means the person has woken up when he is not supposed to be awake.

Because sleep paralysis is a complex phenomenon, it has been widely studied by scientists. The most common cause is waking up in the middle of REM stage sleep. When a person wakes up when the REM stage is still active, he is able to see, hear and feel because the brain is awake, but is unable to move because the body has not yet come out of the REM stage. Although this sounds scary, it lasts only a few seconds because the body realizes that the brain is already awake and slowly begins to move again.

In the number of studies conducted over the years to find out more about sleep paralysis, the most common cause has been identified as sleep deprivation. When a person is deprived of the normal sleep cycle, he is more likely to wake up in the middle of the REM stage. Usually, we are supposed to wake up at the end of the REM stage, but if we don’t have a normal sleep cycle, the possibility of waking up in the middle of the REM stage increases. This is when sleep paralysis is most likely to happen.

Sleep paralysis is also common in narcolepsy patients, according to sleep experts at the Sleep-Wake Disorders Center at the Montefiore Health System, New York. Because narcolepsy is the result of a disrupted sleep cycle, sleep paralysis is more likely to happen, in combination with hallucinations. Napping also increases the possibility of sleep paralysis because it disrupts the natural sleep pattern. If you oversleep while napping, you may experience sleep paralysis.

Young age also is likely to be a cause behind sleep paralysis. The Mayo Clinic says that sleep paralysis is most common in the age range of 10 and 25. This means even children can be affected by this disorder and also get very frightened.

In people with anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or panic disorder, sleep paralysis is very likely, according to a 2017 report published by the National Institutes of Health. Since these emotional disorders result in nightmares and insomnia, they also increase the possibility of sleep paralysis.

According to a 2011 study by Pennsylvania State University, nearly eight percent of the general population experienced sleep paralysis. Among them, about 31 percent of people suffer from mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Although this was a small study, it does go a long way in proving that mental disorders are associated with sleep paralysis to a certain extent. However, this doesn’t mean that every person with anxiety or PTSD will get sleep paralysis.

Genetics may also have a role to play in sleep paralysis. According to the findings of a 2015 sleep study involving 862 twins and siblings by the University of Sheffield, genetics could influence sleep paralysis is some people. Although this study was also preliminary, the researchers added that it does provide a basic idea about the involvement of circadian rhythms in sleep paralysis.

Symptoms of Sleep Paralysis

Those who have experienced sleep paralysis find it to be scary. It almost seems like you were having a stroke, where your entire body was paralyzed, and you couldn’t move or speak. These are the most important symptoms of sleep paralysis. People are unable to move any part of their bodies or speak right after waking up or right when falling asleep. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can last a few seconds or up to a minute. Along with paralysis of the body, people may also experience tightness or pressure on their chest, as well as a choking feeling.

Hallucinations are also not uncommon during an episode of sleep paralysis. This is because the brain is still in a dream-state and hasn’t fully woken up. These visions or hallucinations can be an extension of an ongoing dream. Aside from these, there are no other symptoms of sleep paralysis. The person is awake and aware during sleep paralysis episodes and can later recount the experience.

Sleep Paralysis Prevention and Treatment

There are no short or long term effects of sleep paralysis. Hence, there is no treatment for it. What can be treated is an underlying cause that could be contributing to sleep paralysis. Rather than treatment, this is an effort to prevent sleep paralysis.

Sleep experts suggest that medical help is not required after only one rare episode of sleep paralysis. What is important is to check your sleep hygiene. Often, sleep paralysis is a sign of sleep deprivation. If you have experienced sleep paralysis only once or twice, you should make sure to get enough sleep daily, limit caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and all other drugs, and stop using electronics at bedtime.

Medical help might be needed to treat underlying causes if the above doesn’t help and sleep paralysis episodes keep becoming more frequent. A sleep specialist is a person to see if you have recurrent sleep paralysis episodes.

Although sleep paralysis is not dangerous, if you experience extreme episodes, you may be prescribed a short course of antidepressants. This helps to treat any underlying stress or mental disorder that might be the reason.

Sleep experts suggest that during a sleep paralysis episode, it is important to remain calm and keep telling yourself that it will soon pass. There’s not much else that you can do. No one has ever remained in a sleep paralysis forever, so it’s important to understand that it’s only temporary and pass very soon. However, this is possible only when you’ve experienced an episode or two before. The first time, such episodes can really be frightening.

Risk Factors of Sleep Paralysis

Sleep paralysis is a fairly common phenomenon and can affect anyone in any age group. It is most likely to begin between age 14 and 17 years and decreases after the age of 30. A person is more likely to experience it if there someone in the family with the disorder.

Some of the risk factors are:

Bipolar disorder
Anxiety, depression or PTSD
Sleeping on your back
Excessive stress
The use of certain medications

Interesting Facts About Sleep Paralysis

In the past, before science could explain everything, it used to be believed that ghosts and demons caused sleep paralysis by pinning people down by sitting on their chest. However, these visions were mere hallucinations, a common symptom of sleep paralysis. In fact, most people who report seeing apparitions actually had sleep paralysis.

People also use different methods to shake themselves out of the episode. Some wiggle their toes while others cough. However, it isn’t possible to wake oneself up from an episode of sleep paralysis, until it passes.

If you, or someone you know has episodes of sleep paralysis, share the following infographic. It lucidly explains what sleep paralysis is, what causes it, and finally how to treat sleep paralysis.

How Long Does Effects of Melatonin Last?

03/06/202502/09/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Melatonin has grown in popularity in recent years as a natural sleep aid. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global melatonin market size was valued at $720.5 million in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2021 to 2028.

The growing popularity of melatonin may be due to several factors, including the increasing prevalence of sleep disorders, the rise of natural and alternative medicine, and the ease of access to melatonin supplements.

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With sleep disorders rising around the world with every passing day, people are more interested in sleep aids than ever. Sleep aids come in various forms. They come as liquids and as pills, and sometimes even as a supplement in the form of powder. To make sleep aids easily accessible, most of them are available over-the-counter and don’t even require a prescription. Sleep aids used to be an easy way for people to commit suicide, but modern sleeping pills no longer have the potential to kill. If you overdose on sleeping pills, you’re only going to sleep for a long time and in the worst case scenario get very sick.

Modern sleep aids also incorporate natural ingredients to help people sleep without resorting to chemicals always. Although sleep aids are not a cure for sleep disorders and should not be consumed on a regular basis, they are popular everywhere because they are a fast and easy means of falling and staying asleep. To make sleeping pills safer, there are now the kinds that are made of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Because melatonin is a natural part of our body, consuming melatonin sleep aids are believed to have fewer side effects than regular sleep aids.

But melatonin can also make it hard for you to wake up on time every morning if you don’t know when to time its consumption. In this post, we discuss melatonin production, melatonin sleep aids, and the right time to take it.

What Is Melatonin?

Like all bodily functions, sleep is also controlled by hormones. The hormone for alertness is serotonin, and the hormone for sleep is melatonin. While sunshine and bright lights aid in the production of serotonin, darkness aids in the production of melatonin. Melatonin is normally produced only after sundown.

But hormonal imbalances are common in every individual, and if your melatonin production is not normal, you are going to have sleep issues. Being exposed to bright lights also hinders melatonin production and makes it hard for sleep to come at night. Blue light is one of the worst enemies of melatonin production. If you are exposed to electronic devices most of the time, you are more at risk for suffering from sleep disorders. This is because the blue light emitted from backlit electronic devices significantly hinders melatonin production.

For a healthy sleep-wake cycle, the serotonin and melatonin productions should be in balance. Lack of melatonin causes sleep disorders like insomnia whereas a lack of serotonin causes depression and low energy. Melatonin is produced by the part of the brain called the hypothalamus.

Melatonin Sleep Aid

Sleep aids are known to have various side effects. This led to the development of sleep aids made with melatonin, a hormone that’s naturally present in our bodies. However, melatonin sleep aids aren’t a solution to low melatonin production. They only help you fall asleep by increasing the amount of melatonin in your brain. If you don’t take it, your melatonin levels will go back to their previous state.

Melatonin sleep aids usually come in the form of a pill and should be taken before bedtime. Melatonin supplements are available over-the-counter and don’t require prescriptions. Melatonin supplements are either pure or compounded and added to other products. Pure melatonin supplements are always available as pills or capsules, but when they are mixed to other products, they are also available as liquids or sprays.

Because melatonin supplements are very potent and fast-acting, they should be taken only before bedtime.

Melatonin Supplement Dosage

Generally, melatonin supplements are available as over-the-counter drugs in most pharmacies. But they don’t require a prescription, are not regulated by the FDA, and have no fixed dosage. The appropriate dosage is usually mentioned on the pack but can also be misleading in many cases.

Before taking a melatonin supplement, it is important to consult a healthcare practitioner for the right dosage. Melatonin is more potent and faster acting than most other sleep aids and should be used judiciously to avoid side effects. Unlike other sleep aids, even the lowest dose of melatonin has been found effective in treating sleep issues. You don’t always have to take the highest dose for the maximum effect. To be on the safe side, it’s best to start with the lowest dosage.

There have so far been no adverse effects reported from melatonin supplements. However, the timing is everything in taking melatonin supplements. More important than the dose is the time when you are taking the supplement.

How Long Does Melatonin Last?

A lot of people new to melatonin supplements experience excessive sleepiness during the day after taking sleep aid at night. This is because of wrong timing.

The effects of melatonin last according to the dosage. A dosage of 0.5 mg will last only an hour while a 10 mg dosage will last more than seven hours. It all depends on how severe your condition. If you have infrequent episodes of sleeplessness, then a dosage of one or two milligrams should help you fall asleep. If you’re a chronic insomniac or suffer from the delayed onset of sleep, you need a dosage of 10mg or higher.

The effects of melatonin are also quick to go away. Taking higher doses isn’t the solution here. You simply have to time it right. If you simply want to get better sleep and don’t suffer from a sleep disorder, you should take the supplement no sooner than 30 minutes before going to bed. If you suffer from delayed sleep onset, you should take it at least an hour before going to bed.

If you have been diagnosed with a sleep disorder and also take other sleep aids, you should not start taking a melatonin supplement without consulting a doctor. Melatonin supplements are usually known to be safe and can also be given to children. However, dependence on any sleep aid isn’t recommended.

Although melatonin supplements are considered safer than most other sleep aids, they should be taken only if recommended by a doctor. Consuming the wrong supplements or medications can make your condition grow worse.

If you are looking for a sleep supplement that will keep you asleep, try Sleep Relief. It is biphasic which means different ingredients will kick in at different times so that you stay asleep all night and wake up well-rested. One drawback of this supplement is that the pills are a bit large so may be a turn off if you don’t like swallowing pills. Another option is Olly Sleep Gummies which are chewable and taste great. While they aren’t quite as strong as Sleep Relief, they have other natural ingredients that keep you asleep more than melatonin alone.

Melatonin Dosage Chart:

Children aged 0-5 years old: Consult with a doctor before giving melatonin to children in this age range.
Children aged 6-12 years old: 1-3 mg of melatonin per day.
Adults aged 13 years and above: 3-10 mg of melatonin per day.

It’s important to note that the ideal dosage of melatonin can vary depending on a person’s individual needs, so it’s best to consult with a doctor before taking melatonin or any other supplements. Additionally, melatonin should only be taken for a short-term period to help with sleep issues, and not as a long-term solution.

Can You Overdose on Melatonin?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on melatonin. Taking too much melatonin can lead to several side effects, including:

Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Irritability
Daytime sleepiness
Confusion
Hormonal fluctuations

In rare cases, extremely high doses of melatonin can lead to more serious symptoms, such as seizures or a decreased ability to regulate body temperature.

It’s important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines and to not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor first. If you experience any negative side effects after taking melatonin, it’s important to stop taking it and seek medical attention if necessary.

Is it OK To Take Every Night?

Melatonin is generally safe for short-term use, but it’s not recommended to take it every night on a long-term basis. This is because your body may become dependent on melatonin to fall asleep, which can make it difficult to sleep without it. Additionally, taking melatonin every night can cause your body to stop producing its own melatonin naturally, which can further disrupt your sleep cycle.

It’s best to use melatonin for short-term periods to help with sleep issues, such as jet lag or occasional insomnia. If you’re experiencing ongoing sleep issues, it’s important to address the underlying causes with the help of a healthcare professional, rather than relying on melatonin as a long-term solution.

Can I Take Melatonin After Drinking?

It is not recommended to take melatonin if you have been drinking alcohol. Alcohol can interfere with the way melatonin is metabolized in the body, which can affect its effectiveness and potentially cause negative side effects.

Additionally, combining melatonin with alcohol can increase the sedative effects of both substances, which can lead to excessive drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. This can be dangerous, especially if you’re planning to drive or operate heavy machinery.

If you have been drinking and are experiencing sleep issues, it’s best to avoid taking melatonin and instead, try other methods to promote sleep, such as relaxation techniques or a warm bath before bed. It’s important to give your body time to metabolize the alcohol before taking any supplements or medications.

Is Melatonin Addictive?

Melatonin is not considered addictive, as it doesn’t cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. However, as mentioned earlier, your body can become dependent on melatonin to fall asleep if you take it every night for a long period of time. This can make it difficult to sleep without melatonin, but it’s not the same as addiction.

It’s important to use melatonin as directed and only for short-term periods to avoid developing a dependence on it.

Most Popular Brands of Melatonin

There are many different brands of melatonin available on the market, but some of the most popular ones include:

Natrol Melatonin
Nature Made Melatonin
NOW Melatonin
Source Naturals Melatonin
Sundown Naturals Melatonin
Life Extension Melatonin
Solgar Melatonin
Garden of Life Melatonin
Puritan’s Pride Melatonin
GNC Melatonin

It’s important to note that the quality and effectiveness of melatonin can vary depending on the brand and formulation, so it’s important to choose a reputable brand and to follow the recommended dosage guidelines.

Melatonin Alternatives

If you’re looking for alternatives to melatonin for sleep support, there are several options to consider. Here are some common alternatives:

Valerian root: Valerian root is a natural herb that can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Chamomile: Chamomile tea is a popular natural remedy for sleep issues, as it has calming and soothing properties that can help you relax.
Lavender: Lavender essential oil is known for its calming effects and can be used in aromatherapy or as a natural sleep aid.
Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that can help relax the body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep.
L-theanine: L-theanine is an amino acid that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.
5-HTP: 5-HTP is a natural supplement that can help increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and promote better sleep.

Why Do I Wake Up A Few Hours After Taking Melatonin?

There could be several reasons why you’re waking up a few hours after taking melatonin. Here are a few possibilities:

Timing: Melatonin is most effective when taken about 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. If you take melatonin too early or too late, it may wear off before you’re ready to wake up, leading to disrupted sleep.
Dosage: Taking too much or too little melatonin can also disrupt your sleep. If you’re taking too little, it may not be enough to help you stay asleep, while taking too much can cause drowsiness the next day or interfere with your sleep cycle.
Individual differences: Everyone’s body chemistry is different, so melatonin may work differently for different people. Some people may find that melatonin helps them fall asleep but doesn’t keep them asleep, while others may find that it has no effect on their sleep.
Underlying issues: If you’re experiencing ongoing sleep issues, there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed. This could include stress, anxiety, or other medical conditions that are affecting your sleep.

How Do You Take Melatonin?

Melatonin is available in various forms, including pills, liquids, gummies, and even sprays. Whether a pill or liquid form is better for you may depend on personal preference and convenience.

Pills are a convenient and easy way to take melatonin, as they’re portable and don’t require any measuring or mixing. They’re also available in different strengths and formulations, making it easier to find the right dose for your needs.

Liquid melatonin, on the other hand, can be absorbed more quickly by the body, making it a good option for people who have difficulty swallowing pills or need faster-acting relief. It can also be easier to adjust the dosage of liquid melatonin as needed.

Ultimately, the choice between pill or liquid melatonin may come down to personal preference and convenience. It’s important to choose a reputable brand and to follow the recommended dosage guidelines for whichever form you choose. If you have any questions or concerns about taking melatonin, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Can Melatonin Help Prevent Covid?

There has been some research suggesting that melatonin may have potential in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19. COVID-19 is a viral respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has resulted in a global pandemic.

One study published in the journal Life Sciences found that melatonin may be effective in reducing the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and preventing complications, particularly in elderly patients who are at higher risk of developing severe illness. The study suggests that melatonin may have immunomodulatory effects that can regulate the immune response to the virus and reduce inflammation.

Another study published in the journal Antioxidants found that melatonin can help protect against the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by COVID-19, which may contribute to the development of severe illness.

However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of melatonin in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19.

Is it Illegal in Certain Countries?

The legal status of melatonin can vary depending on the country. In some countries, melatonin is available over-the-counter and is considered a dietary supplement, while in others it may be available only with a prescription or may be restricted or prohibited altogether.

For example, in the United States, melatonin is available over-the-counter and is considered a dietary supplement, which means it’s not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that prescription drugs are. However, in other countries like Canada, melatonin is only available with a prescription.

In some countries, like Australia and New Zealand, melatonin is classified as a prescription medicine and is only available with a doctor’s prescription.

It’s important to check the legal status of melatonin in your country before purchasing or using it, and to follow any applicable regulations or guidelines.

How Soon To Take Before Going to Bed?

Melatonin is typically taken about 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. This allows enough time for the melatonin to be absorbed by the body and start working to promote sleep.

It’s important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines for melatonin and to take it at the same time each night to help regulate your sleep cycle. Taking melatonin earlier or later than the recommended time may not be as effective, and could potentially disrupt your sleep cycle.

Is it Safe to Buy on Amazon?

It is generally safe to buy melatonin from reputable online retailers like Amazon. However, it’s important to be cautious when purchasing any supplements online, as the quality and authenticity of the product can vary depending on the seller.

When purchasing melatonin or any other supplements from Amazon, it’s important to choose a reputable seller with positive reviews and to check the expiration date and ingredients list before making a purchase. It’s also a good idea to research the brand and manufacturer to ensure that they have a good reputation and follow safe manufacturing practices.

Additionally, it’s important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines and to not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a healthcare professional first.

Our Recommended Melatonin Brand:

Nature Made

Nature Made is a reputable brand of melatonin that is well-known for producing high-quality supplements. They offer a variety of melatonin products in different strengths and formulations, including tablets, gummies, and liquid softgels.

Nature Made is a trusted brand in the supplement industry and has a reputation for following strict manufacturing standards and using high-quality ingredients. They also undergo third-party testing to ensure the purity and potency of their products.

However, it’s important to note that individual experiences with melatonin can vary, and what works well for one person may not work as well for another.

Recent Research on Melatonin

Here are a few recent studies and current research on melatonin:

Melatonin and COVID-19: A study published in the journal Life Sciences found that melatonin may have potential in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 due to its ability to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Melatonin and sleep quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews found that melatonin can significantly improve sleep quality in people with insomnia, particularly in older adults.
Melatonin and cancer: A study published in the journal BMC Cancer found that melatonin may have potential as an adjunct therapy for breast cancer, as it can enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and reduce the side effects.
Melatonin and heart health: A review published in the journal Current Pharmaceutical Design found that melatonin may have potential in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, as it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Melatonin and fertility: A study published in the journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology found that melatonin can improve sperm quality and may have potential as a treatment for male infertility.

It’s important to note that while these studies suggest potential benefits of melatonin, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on different health conditions.

Managing Sleep Disorders in Children with Autism

08/19/202401/30/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Parents of children with autism are acutely aware of the struggle of getting them to sleep every night. Sleep issues in those with autism spectrum disorder are one of the most major concerns of parents, because it affects not only the child but also the entire household. Children with autism have a wide range of issues that pose challenges for parents, teachers, and healthcare practitioners. But sleep problems can leave the child tired and irritable and disrupt the sleep of every other person in the house.

Much like the other issues presented by autism spectrum disorder, the sleep issues also range from mild to severe. In some children, it is more manageable, while in others, the help of healthcare practitioners may be required. By understanding the cause of sleep disorders, parents can help children with autism settle down and get a good night’s rest.

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is defined as a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in communication and social interaction, varying in severity. Not all children with autism spectrum disorder have the same symptoms, although most of them are related to social skills and communication. Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder appear within the ages of 1 and 2. Children with autism may also have symptoms of hyperactivity, difficulty learning, and inability to make friends.

Some of the most important symptoms of autism spectrum disorder include:

Lack of response when called by name
Resistance to being held or cuddled
Not showing emotions or making eye contact
Difficulty speaking or delayed speech
Inability to start a conversation or hold one
Difficulty following instructions or nonverbal cues like facial expressions
Passive, aggressive or disruptive behavior in social situations
Problem with coordination
Repetitive movements like spinning or rocking
Indulging in self-harm, like biting or head-banging
Affinity to specific routines and inability to adapt to change

Autism spectrum disorder has no cure but if intervened early the right treatment and therapy can make a big difference. People have to live with autism forever, and in many cases, their social and professional lives are impaired, including making friends, forming relationships, or holding a job. In some people, symptoms of autism are very visible while others may not appear as autistic at first glance.

Sleep Disorders in Autism

All children have a problem with sleep in the early years. They may either refuse to adhere to a certain bed time, or fall asleep before it’s time for bed, or have difficulty waking up in the morning. Some children me also experience insomnia, but it usually goes away on its own and is not a cause for concern.

But when it comes to children with autism, sleep disorders add to the challenges already faced by parents on a daily basis. Children with autism also exhibit certain sleep disorders not usually seen in other children, such as:

Irregular sleep and wake patterns, such as staying awake till very late or waking up too early in the morning
Sleeping too little for their age or being awake till late in the night
Getting up and playing or making noise in the middle of the night when they are supposed to sleep
Excessive sleepiness during the day
Falling asleep in weird places and refusing to budge

As with other problems experienced by children with autism, sleep disorders can also be hard to manage. The worst part is when it begins to take a toll on the parents and other members of the household. Children with autism can be excessively needy and seek reassurance all the time. They may wake up in the middle of the night or too early in the morning and also wake up the entire household because they cannot settle and need reassurance. Such behavior can lead to excessive parental stress.

In children with mild to moderate autism, these sleep disorders get better with age. But in children with severe autism spectrum disorder, sleep issues can last for years and may never completely go away. If a child with severe autism experiences sleep disorders on a daily basis, parents should seek the help of a professional to try and make things better before the child grows older. Once the child grows up, these issues can be almost impossible to eradicate.

Causes Behind Sleep Disorders in Children with Autism

Sleep disorders in children with autism result from a number of factors. It helps to note that sleep disorder itself is not the issue; there is an underlying cause that needs to be treated first. Some of the causes behind autism related sleep disorders are:

Difficulty in Communication

Children with autism usually have difficulties communicating their needs and wants to others. They are not able to adjust in a social setting or make friends. This is often one of the reasons why your child might be kept awake at night. Inability to communicate clearly with others causes stress to the child and prevents normal sleep. Because of these communication problems, children with autism are often unable to pick up on cues. All these stress can cause sleep disorders in children with autism.

Sticking to Routine

Children with autism are extremely particular about routine. They find it easy to fall asleep if a specific bedtime is followed every day. Even the slightest deviation from routine can upset them and cause mental disturbances. Besides, they also have weird habits, such as falling asleep in a particular place and refusing to sleep in bed. They may have favorite objects like a toy or a set of clothes without which they refuse to go to bed. They may even throw tantrums if they do not find their favorite objects. Children with autism can be stubborn and these habits can be very hard to break, escalating sleep disorders.

Hyperactivity

One of the biggest symptoms of autism spectrum disorder is hyperactivity. Children with autism refuse to settle and have excessive energy and alertness, make it hard for them to fall asleep. They may have difficulty sitting or lying in one place for long time, and make repetitive movements like spinning, jumping or flapping their arms and legs. Because of such hyperactivity, it can be hard to get children with autism to settle or sleep. If social settings cause anxiety to the child, it can snowball into a sleep disorder.

Side Effects of Medications

If your child takes medications for autism, they can have certain side effects. Sleep issues are often side effects of medications. In that case, you should consult the healthcare practitioner to change the medication.

Managing Sleep Disorders

Sleep problems in children with autism aren’t always because of the condition. Some of them can also be behavior issues that can be easily managed by strategies used for any other child.

However, children with autism can have difficulty understanding instructions or cues, so you need a lot of time and patience.

The following are a few strategies for managing sleep problems in children with autism.

Develop and Stick to Sleep Routines

As with any other child, you need to establish a positive routine during bedtime. This involves engaging your child in relaxing and calming activities for 20 or 30 minutes before bed. The routine should be age-appropriate bedtime for your child. Regular bedtimes and wake times have been found to help children with autism spectrum disorder with their sleep problems.

Warning for Approaching Bed Time

Children with autism get upset if they are suddenly asked to change activities. For instance, if your child is busy with his favorite toy when you suddenly announce it’s time for bed, they may get upset and throw a tantrum. Therefore, you should give plenty of warnings in advance that bedtime is approaching. Also make sure to stick to the routine every single day, even when you are on a holiday or at someone else’s house.

Be Patient and Consistent

Children with autism can get upset at being put to bed and keep getting out. Parents need to put the child gently back to bed, as many times as they get out. Returning the child to bed helps establish the fact that it’s bedtime and they need to sleep.

Sleep Environment

Pay careful attention to the sleep environment of the child. If the child won’t sleep without a certain toy or pillow, it’s important to gradually phase out the item to decrease their reliance on it. It’s also necessary to teach the child to sleep in their own bed and to fall asleep on their own. This can be done with the help of cues, like drawing pictures or telling them stories. If your child suffers from anxiety, playing music, keeping a night light on, or telling them bedtime stories can help bring about relaxation.

Although certain autism-related problems exist even in adulthood, sleep problems can be managed with lots of patience and consistence from the parents, and help from professionals.

Understanding the Relation Between Alcohol and Sleep

08/20/202401/07/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Anyone who has ever consumed alcohol knows that it makes people drowsy. This is the very reason why many people consume alcohol before going to bed because it helps them fall asleep faster. In many cultures, it is a custom to drink a nightcap after dinner or before going to bed because it is supposed to help the person relax and fall asleep faster. In that case, drinking any warm beverage, such as milk or herbal tea, aids in sleep. But there’s nothing that works like alcohol. The moment you consume alcohol, your nerves start to loosen up, and you feel drowsy and sleepy. Naturally, after drinking any alcoholic beverage, it does not take long at all to fall asleep. That is how most people consider the relation between alcohol and sleep.

About 20 percent of Americans use alcohol as a sleep aid. It’s true that alcohol induces sleep quickly but what we don’t realize is that alcohol also negatively impacts the quantity and quality of sleep. There are people who regularly use alcohol as a sleep aid to reduce sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep). But constant use of alcohol for sleeping results in alcohol dependence, just like any other sleep aid.

Because alcohol disrupts the quality and quantity of sleep, people usually wake up with a hangover. Keep in mind that alcohol is not like other sleeping aids that are specially formulated to help people sleep. Alcohol is consumed for pleasure, and that is what it should be limited to because consuming alcohol for sleep has both short- and long-term effects.

Why Use Sleep Aid?

There is only one reason why people use sleep aids, and that’s for falling and staying asleep. Unfortunately, the vast majority of people who consume sleeping pills or other sleep aids on a regular basis do so without consulting a healthcare practitioner. Not all sleep aid requires a prescription, making it easier for people to consume sleeping pills randomly. Most people do not know how to consume sleeping pills safely. As a result, the dependency on the sleeping pill slowly grows and makes it impossible to sleep without it.

A large number of people around the world suffer from some kind of sleep disorder. In many cases, the sufferer is not even aware of the condition. Certain sleep disorders can go for years without being diagnosed or treated. This means the sufferer keeps losing precious sleep to the disorder.

In some cases, healthcare practitioners prescribe sleep aid for any of the three reasons:

To aid in falling asleep
To help in staying sleep
To prevent frequent episodes of wakefulness during the night

When healthcare practitioners prescribe sleeping pills, they are aware of the effects and side effects and can guide the patient to use the pills safely. They also know when to instruct the patient to slowly go off the pills and try to sleep without them. In cases like insomnia, sleeping pills are regularly prescribed by doctors to prevent the person from sleep deprivation. Sleeping pills are also prescribed when the patient suffers from some other disorder that prevents quality sleep. But when a sleep aid is prescribed by healthcare practitioners, it is done after considering the overall health of the person and the side effects of the sleep aid.

Although many people consume alcohol as a sleep aid, you will never find a healthcare practitioner endorsing this idea. Alcohol might help you fall asleep faster, but the side effects outweigh the benefits.

How Alcohol Disrupts Sleep

At first glance, it seems that alcohol is an effective sleep aid. But there are several ways in which alcohol disrupts sleep. Alcohol is a depressant, which means it reduces the alertness and hinders the function of the nervous system. Once you know that alcohol is a depressant, it isn’t hard to understand why any alcoholic beverage causes drowsiness and hangover and robs the person of all sensibilities.

Alcohol not only affects you negatively while you are awake but also when you are asleep. The following are the five ways in which alcohol disrupts your sleep cycle and quality.

Disruption of Sleep Cycle

There are four stages of sleep, and all of them are equally important in ensuring that you wake up refreshed and alert. If you spend a long time in one stage and do not spend enough time in the other, your sleep cycle is disrupted. It’s true that alcohol reduces the time taken to fall asleep, but there is an important way in which alcohol gets in the way of restorative sleep. This is by turning on both delta wave and Alpha wave activity. Delta wave activity happens when the person is in a deep sleep. This is responsible for memory formation, focus, and learning. But at the same time alcohol also turns on another brain pattern called alpha activity. The problem is alpha activity is not supposed to happen when the person is asleep. It takes place when the person is awake. When Delta and Alpha activities take place at the same time, it can prevent restorative sleep and leave you feeling tired in the morning.

Impact on Circadian Rhythm

While alcohol may help you fall asleep easily, it severely impacts the quality of sleep. Even if you fall asleep quickly, it’s common to wake up in the middle of the night. The reason behind this is that alcohol disrupts production of the chemicals that balance sleep and wakefulness. When you consume alcohol before bedtime, it produces adenosine, a sleep-inducing chemical in the brain. Adenosine brings on sleep very fast, but it also fades away just as quickly, making you wake up even before you’ve had enough sleep.

Blocking REM Sleep

Have you ever wondered why you wake up with a hangover after consuming alcohol? One of the reasons is that alcohol hinders the normal functioning of the nervous system and makes you feel confused and disoriented. There is another reason why consuming alcohol before bedtime leads to feeling groggy and confused in the morning. The reason is that alcohol prevents REM sleep. The final stage of sleep is called the REM phase and is considered the most restorative type of sleep. The brain becomes active in this sleep stage and boosts alertness, memory, and concentration. In short, this is the phase when the brain recharges and gets ready for the next day. When you miss out on REM sleep, you are more than likely to wake up confused groggy and disoriented because the brain hasn’t had time to recharge.

Aggravate Breathing Problems

Alcohol works by relaxing all the nerves and muscles of the body. That is why alcohol feels so relaxing before bed because it makes you drowsy and helps you fall asleep faster. But if you suffer from problems like snoring or sleep apnea alcohol aggravates these problems by causing breathing difficulties. When the nerves and muscles relax, the throat muscles also relax, obstructing the airway and preventing normal breathing. Even if you don’t normally snore, sleeping after consuming alcohol can make you more prone to snoring because of the relaxed throat muscles. When this continues for a long time, it can become chronic sleep apnea.

Waking Up for The Bathroom

Your body knows that sleep is a time for rest and not for frequent trips to the bathroom. This means your bladder is also sleeping through the night. But alcohol being a diuretic, increases your need to go to the bathroom during the night. While there is nothing harmful with going to the bathroom during the night, waking up frequently can prevent you from having a quality restful sleep. Every time you go to the bathroom you are turning on a light, which blocks the production of melatonin and makes it harder to fall back asleep.

Sleeping Naturally Without Alcohol

When you regularly consume alcohol for falling asleep fast, it can seem like there is no other way you could ever fall asleep. But that’s not the truth. There are ways to fall asleep without depending on alcohol, and one of the first steps is to treat any existing sleep disorder.

Sleep disorders are the biggest cause behind insufficient sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness. To get proper nightly sleep, sleep disorders must be diagnosed and treated before they go out of hand. To kick the habit of using alcohol as a sleep aid, you should talk to your healthcare practitioner about natural sleep aids.

Once you stop consuming alcohol before bedtime, it can be initially difficult to sleep without it. But if you give your body enough time to adjust to the change, it’s possible to kick the habit and sleep without alcohol. Natural sleep aids like lavender oil, acupuncture, and melatonin supplements work to help you fall and stay asleep without side effects.

Is there a Relation Between Menopause and Sleep?

08/19/202401/07/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Sleep is very touchy. Even the slightest things can scare it away and make it elude you for long nights. For instance, if you’re sick, you may be unable to sleep for many nights. If you’re too stressed, sleep can evade you. If you’re too excited about something, it can make sleep go away. When you regularly experience stress, hyper arousal, or medical conditions, it can wreak havoc on your sleep quality and quantity.

Modern women are often under greater stress than men. Today’s women aren’t staying at home and cooking and cleaning anymore. They are going to work, managing demanding careers, raising children, caring for aged parents, and also doing their bit for the community. Women are capable of single-handedly managing both home and work and taking care of every little detail. But as a result, they also suffer from greater stress.

Around the age of 35 through 40, women begin to experience perimenopause symptoms. This is when women approach the end of their reproductive phase. Various symptoms mark the onset of menopause, from weight gain to mood swings to hot flushes. But a common complaint is insomnia or poor sleep quality. Several women approaching midlife complain of sleep difficulties. More often than not, the cause is perimenopause or menopause.

Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause doesn’t happen in a day. It begins from the time a woman crosses 35 and continues until the age of 45 or more. This transition phase is called perimenopause. Some women reach menopause too early while others can keep having children till 45. It all depends on the genetic makeup of the person.

Both perimenopause and menopause have similar symptoms. Not all women experience all of them, though. Some of the most common signs of perimenopause and menopause are:

Irregular Periods: As a woman crosses 35, irregular periods is the biggest sign of perimenopause. With time, periods become severely irregular and scanty, before stopping altogether. However, irregular periods can also be a sign of some other medical condition that only a doctor can diagnose.

Heavy or Scanty Periods: As the fertile phase of a woman comes to an end, periods are not only irregular but also heavier or scantier than usual. However, these may also be an indicator of some other underlying medical condition, especially if you haven’t yet reached the age of perimenopause.

PMS-Like Symptoms: Premenstrual syndrome usually gets worse in the years approaching menopause. Mood swings, breast tenderness, weight gain, bloating, and abdominal cramps are some of the symptoms that are common during perimenopause.

Hair and Skin Changes: Because menopause is all about hormones, these changes can affect your hair and skin. You may notice graying of hair or severe hair fall.

Night Sweats and Hot Flushes: Bodies of women approaching menopause get hot very easily. When others in a room are feeling cold, they might feel hot. This more commonly happens at night, making sleep difficult. Night sweats and hot flushes are tell-tale signs of menopause, especially when they happen at night. Feeling stuffy and uncomfortable can make it hard to sleep. All these factors contribute to insomnia and poor sleep quality.

Some other symptoms of perimenopause are:

Heart palpitations
Headaches
Loss of libido
Forgetfulness and concentration problems
Muscle cramps
Urinary tract infections

Insomnia during perimenopause or menopause isn’t because of one factor. Several factors combine to make sleep difficult for menopausal women.

What Happens During Menopause?

The transition from perimenopause to menopause is marked by the decline in production of certain hormones. These are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These three hormones not only regulate the reproductive and menstrual cycle but also have a significant impact on energy, mood, libido, cognitive and emotional functioning, and sleep. When these hormones start to decline, there is bound to be some problem to the normal functioning of the body.

Both estrogen and progesterone are responsible for promoting sleep and relaxation and keeping away anxiety and depression. Progesterone is not only the one behind each monthly cycle, labor, and breastfeeding but also regulates mood and keeps the sleep-wake cycle normal. Loss of progesterone also contributes to osteoporosis.

As the hormones fluctuate and decline all through the perimenopausal and menopausal stages, sleep often tends to be increasingly disrupted. When women cross perimenopause and enter menopause, it is not unusual for women to routinely experience insomnia and have a hard time falling and staying asleep.

Treating Insomnia During Menopause

It must be noted that as long as a woman continues to have irregular or scanty periods, she is experiencing perimenopause or menopause. The end of this stage is post-menopause when periods have been absent for 12 months or more. This means that the hormone rebalancing is now complete, and the body is not producing estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone anymore.

Not all women experience severe insomnia during perimenopause or menopause. But if sleep difficulties are keeping you up night after night, it’s time to take the necessary steps to stop or prevent them.

Instead of treating insomnia, healthcare practitioners are generally suggesting treating the root cause. Are hot flushes keeping you up? Are you experiencing rapid heartbeats or hyperarousal? Are you always too hot to be comfortable?

These are some common complaints during menopause, but there are steps to get relief.

The first things to control are your sleep habits. As your body changes, your sleep habits must also change along with it. Certain things to follow to ensure proper sleep hygiene are:

Sticking to Specific Sleep and Wake Times: When your sleep and wake times keep changing every day, the body is confused. Instead, stick to a particular bedtime and the same wake-up time every single day, even on weekends. This habituates the body to a rhythm. For instance, if you go to bed at 10 every night and wake up at 6 every morning, the body will automatically feel sleepy when it approaches 10 o’clock, and also be able to wake up without an alarm clock in the morning. Routine bedtime and wake-up time is the first step in healthy sleep hygiene.

Preparing Your Body for Sleep: As part of healthy sleep hygiene, you need to prepare yourself for sleep, so that the brain and the body know it’s time to shut down for the day. When you keep working till late or continue to use electronic devices, the body doesn’t get the indication that it’s time for bed. Instead, you should unplug, turn out the lights, take a relaxing bath, and do some light reading to induce sleep.

Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: Certain things can interfere with your sleep hygiene, alcohol and tobacco being two of them. If you are in the habit of smoking or drinking before bed, it’s time to kick the habits when you reach perimenopause. Both alcohol and tobacco interfere with melatonin production and delay the onset of sleep. Alcohol also hinders REM sleep, the most restorative stage of sleep linked to cognitive functioning and memory formation.

Evaluate Your Bedroom: Often, we don’t have the right conditions for falling asleep. The room is too cold or too hot, the bed is uncomfortable, and ambient noise keeps making its way in. When you’re experiencing menopause-related insomnia, you need to take a good look at your bedroom and change what’s needed. If the room is too hot, you will only feel more uncomfortable. Keep your room as cool as possible to keep the hot flushes and night sweats away. If the room is too cold, turn up the thermostat to bring it to a comfortable temperature or use blankets. Also, change the mattress if it’s sagged and doesn’t provide the best support. You can also keep a bucket of ice beside your bed to cool off if you get hot during the night.

Don’t Stress Over Sleep: Stressing oversleep is one of the worst things to increase your insomnia. If you wake up in the middle of the night unable to fall back asleep, don’t stay in bed tossing and turning and worrying about not being able to sleep. Instead, get out of bed, have a nice, soothing drink, turn on a reading light and read a relaxing book. However, make sure to stay away from electronic devices and bright lights, because they can make it even harder to go back to sleep.

Remedies for Menopause-Related Insomnia

Because menopause is purely hormonal, the oft-suggested medical remedy is hormone replacement therapy. But not only is it expensive but can also have various side effects. Instead, there are natural remedies you may try for beating insomnia and having a better sleep.

Some of the non-drug ways to treat insomnia are:

Melatonin supplements
Acupuncture and acupressure
Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing

In many cases, a mild dose of birth control pills may also be prescribed to balance the hormones and control symptoms of menopause.

If menopause has been giving you sleepless nights, do not hesitate to consult your general physician or gynecologist to work towards the best remedy.

Keto Insomnia – A Concise Guide

08/19/202401/07/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Not many of us usually connect our diet to our sleep quality. But the nutrition that we provide to our bodies determines the sleep quality and quantity to a great extent. There are various kinds of diets that a person can follow, in order to lose weight or stay healthy. But getting into a new diet can affect sleep. Some diets can cause insomnia while others can make you feel excessively sleepy.

There are foods that are good for sleep. Not only do they keep you healthy, but also keep your sleep cycle normal. Including those foods in your diet can improve your quality of sleep. But there are certain foods that can interfere with sleep. Foods that are high in sugar or carbohydrates or processed food are the biggest enemies of sleep. It is often recommended that large, heavy meals should not be consumed close to bedtime. This is because sugar and carbohydrates take time to be broken down and digested by the body, which increases metabolism and interferes with sleep.

The quality of sleep that a person enjoys is an indicator of his health. If he sleeps well without any interferences or disturbances, it indicates good health. Poor quality or quantity of sleep is linked to internal weaknesses or nutritional deficiencies.

One diet that can cause insomnia in some people is the ketogenic diet. Various diets come and go, and there are several people who like to try them out, in the hopes of losing weight or becoming healthier. But before starting any new diet, no matter how beneficial to other aspects of health, its effect on sleep should be carefully studied.

What Is The Ketogenic Diet?

Although the keto diet has been around for a while, it has recently started to gain massive popularity because it claims to help in weight loss and fat burn. In this diet, you need to cut down on carbohydrates and increase intake of healthy fats, proteins, and vegetables low in starch. The most significant aspect of this diet is the drastic cut-down on carbohydrates. You have to consume little to no carbohydrates, with most of the energy being provided to the body by fats and proteins.

The word “keto” comes from the small fuel molecules called ketones produced by the body as an alternate source of

Ketones are produced by the liver when both carbs and proteins are in short supply. Carbohydrates and proteins are what convert into glucose to provide fuel for the body. But when these aren’t sufficient enough, the body uses up fat to produce ketones, which serve as fuel for the body and the brain.

A keto diet is thought to be beneficial for weight loss because it helps the body burn fat rapidly. It also has other effects such as less hunger and a higher metabolism. However, there are significant side effects too, which happen when the body is in a state of ketosis.

What Is Ketosis?

When there is an excess of ketones in the body, it’s called ketosis. This is usually triggered by an insufficient amount of carbohydrates and proteins in the body when the metabolism is fueled entirely by fat. It also happens in diabetic patients when the blood sugar levels rise suddenly but can be managed with insulin.

However, when ketosis is a result of a keto diet, there can be a number of side effects. Some of the side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, and insomnia. Sleeplessness is one of the most significant side-effects of ketosis.

Even though every person’s reaction to the keto diet is different, insomnia is one of the most commonly reported symptoms. This is more noticeable when beginning the diet, as the body takes time to adjust to it. Insomnia, at first glance, may not seem as bad. But going without sufficient sleep, especially when you’re on a diet, can do more harm to your body than good. If you suffer from any sleep disorder, you must consult your doctor before going on a new diet.

The Connection Between Ketosis and Insomnia

There is a scientific explanation for the loss of sleep associated with ketosis. Since carbohydrates are usually the main source of energy to the body, they constantly supply the body with glucose and provide the brain amino acid L-tryptophan into the brain. This amino acid helps in the production of serotonin, a hormone that aids in relaxation, sleep, and overall wellbeing. As day turns into night, serotonin is converted into melatonin, the sleep hormone.

The reason behind the insomnia is the inclusion of little to no carbs in the keto diet. As a result, there is low L-tryptophan, which hinders the production of to serotonin and melatonin.

This usually happens in the initial stages of the diet, when the body is still getting used to the new system. Insomnia and inadequate sleep are one the most commonly reported symptoms of ketosis, which also helps people understand that the diet is starting to work.

There may also be other reasons behind insomnia triggered by ketosis. One of them is a high metabolism and extra energy. A keto diet is supposed to fuel energy and boost metabolism, making you more active and alert. However, on the downside, it can also cause delayed sleep onset and insomnia. When you’re bursting with energy all the time, it’s hard to fall asleep.

How To Prevent Insomnia Due to Ketosis

Generally, insomnia or sleep difficulties caused by a keto diet go away on its own once your body gets used to the new diet. To make sure this happens quickly, you must stick to the diet religiously. However, if your sleep problems keep getting worse and if it’s related to the new diet, then it’s an indication that the diet isn’t right for you.

Dream Water Review

08/19/202401/07/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Sleep disorders are omnipresent. Regardless of climate, daylight hours, or culture, a large number of people experience a wide range of sleep disorders, either on a regular basis or very frequently. Suffering from insufficient sleep once in a while is normal and doesn’t affect our health or normal bodily functions, but when we go without sleep for a long stretch of time, it can lead to various other health problems. Loss of appetite, weight gain or loss, hypertension, obesity, fatigue, daytime sleepiness, hormonal imbalance, and risk of cardiac problems are some of the issues that arise out of chronic lack of sleep.

There are people who can go forever without getting diagnosed or treated for their sleep problems. And then there are those who are ready to use just about any remedy if it helps restore normal sleep. None of these options are right. Sleep disorders shouldn’t be left un-diagnosed, but sleep remedies shouldn’t be randomly chosen either. Wherever possible, prescription remedies should be avoided, and natural remedies adopted. Natural remedies have no side effects and show results with continuous use. But unfortunately, most people who suffer from sleep disorders typically resort to over the counter sleeping pills. When sleep aids are chosen without considering the overall health of the person, they can have severe side effects.

If you would like to try a natural sleep remedy that has no significant side effects, you should try Dream Water, a sleep aid drink. Developed in 2004, Dream Water is designed as the water that’s supposed to help you sleep and dream. It is also endorsed by various celebrities like Demi Moore, Katy Perry, and Paris Hilton.

What Causes Sleep Disorders?

In modern society, sleep issues are usually caused by lifestyle disorders. With no fixed time for bed, erratic mealtimes, hectic work schedules, alcohol, and tobacco consumption, and excessive attachment to electronic devices are some of the factors that contribute to not only sleep disorders, but other health issues like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

In many cases, sleep disorders are also caused by environmental factors such as noise, light, temperature, and comfort of the bed. Those who live in a crowded neighborhood with the noise of traffic, loud neighbors, and ambient light creating a menace till late in the night are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders. The temperature of the room and the feel and support of the mattress are also significant factors behind helping a person fall asleep or keeping them awake.

Medical conditions can also be responsible for sleep disorders. Insomnia is a medical condition, so is sleep apnea. If not diagnosed and treated, they become chronic and hard to cure. Remember, if sleep disorders are chronic, natural sleep remedies often have no effect. That’s why, before starting a new supplement or sleep aid, make sure to consult your doctor and consider other health conditions that you might have.

What Dream Water Claims?

As the name suggests, Dream Water looks like water but is infused with three different ingredients that work together to help you relax, fall and stay asleep. If herbal teas or warm milk haven’t done anything for you, maybe you should try this beverage that’s made with natural ingredients used for years for their proven effectiveness. Unlike most other sleep aid, Dream Water can also be consumed before a long flight to help you relax and has been designed in such a way that you can easily go through airport security.

Plain, natural water is more appealing and safer than any other beverage. It’s something that anyone can drink without second thoughts. So when water comes infused with a sleep aid, it is bound to create a hype. After Vitamin Water and CBD water, we now have Dream Water. It is natural and pristine water but loaded with sleep-inducing ingredients that are also natural and do not affect the purity or safety of the water.

How to Use Dream Water

Dream Water is made with three ingredients:

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid: It aids in relaxation and anxiety relief by blocking the impulse transmission from one cell to another in the central nervous system.
Melatonin: This sleep hormone is responsible for governing the body’s internal clock and properly regulating the natural sleep-wake cycle.
5-Hydroxytryptophan: This promotes sleep and relaxation and stimulates melatonin production.

However, before you end up believing that this product is going to work for you, take advantage of the money-back guarantee and try out the water for at least two weeks. Everyone’s bodies and sleep issues are different, and what works for others may not work for you in some cases. That’s why it’s important to try out the product for at least two weeks to give the ingredients time to take action. If there’s no result in two weeks, the product isn’t right for you. You can then take the company up on their money back guarantee.

Cost of Dream Water

Dream Water is packaged like bottled drinking water and priced at $39 for a pack of 12. There’s also free standard shipping.

What Users Say about Dream Water?

The most commonly noted factor about this drink is that there’s no groggy or disoriented feeling in the morning, the kind that happens with other sleep aid. Rather, most users have said that this drink refreshed them and not only helped them in sleeping better but also made waking up in the morning easier.

In Conclusion

Dream Water has invented a brilliant idea of combining natural ingredients into plain water. If other soothing drinks like herbal teas and warm milk aren’t doing it for you, and you also don’t want to take prescription sleep medications, then Dream Water can turn out to be an effective remedy. The product has had mostly favorable reviews so far, and the money-back guarantee makes it safe to try at least once.

Having said that, it must not be assumed that the drink will work for everyone. If you have existing sleep disorders, you should consult your healthcare practitioner before starting to take any sleep aid.

Deja Vu and Dreaming: Is There A Connection?

08/30/202401/07/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Sleep remains a mystery to even to the scientific community. We have been able to build spaceships and send a man to the moon, but when it comes to sleep, much of it is still a mystery. Why? Because sleep is a state of unconsciousness and we don’t yet have the ability to wake up and recount what happened while we were sleeping. Science has been able to find out a lot of things about the mechanism behind sleep over the years, but there is a lot more that needs to be understood about this nightly phenomenon. The need for sleep has also been quite a mystery. Why exactly do we need sleep? Today it is believed that we need sleep because the brain needs to recharge and store energy for the next day. But sleep came about not because of rest but because of safety. The ancient man needed to be safe from wild animals after the sun went down. With nothing else to do, they chose to go to their caves and sleep, even if they did not feel tired. A few centuries ago, when electricity had not been invented, sleep was chosen because it helped save oil and gas. Besides, there was nothing else to do after the sun went down. The duration of sleep has also changed over the years. Man did not always need 8 hours of sleep. The early man slept for as long as 12 hours with a break in between. Today, science has found that man needs 7 to 8 hours of sleep because that’s the time to brain takes to recharge for the next day completely. However, some people need more or less than that amount to function normally. Although science has been successful in interpreting much of the sleep mechanism, there is one aspect that still needs a lot more research: dreaming. And if you have ever experienced Deja Vu – the feeling of familiarity with something that’s not supposed to be familiar – it may have something to do with your dreams.

Why Do We Dream?

Everyone dreams, including babies and animals (if your dog howls in his sleep, he’s probably dreaming of confronting other members of his species). But even though sleep is such a common phenomenon, no one fully understands the reason behind them. The father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, had written a famous book interpreting dreams, but there’s still so much that needs to be answered. Some believe that dreams express hidden feelings and desires, while others believe that dreams can also predict the future. But despite the several advancements made by science, when it comes to decoding the mechanism of dreams , it is still a long way off. Dreams occur in the final stage of sleep, also called the REM stage. In this stage, the brain slowly begins to become active, but the body is still inactive. This is unlike what happens in previous stages when the brain is inactive, and the body works to heal and recharge. The REM stage sleep is important for cognitive functioning and memory forming. In this stage, the brain consolidates thoughts and memories, boosts productivity and concentration, and becomes alert. When REM sleep isn’t sufficient, cognitive functioning can be affected. Dreams occur in the REM stage and not in other stages. That’s because the brain becomes active in this stage, right before waking up. Besides that, the heartbeats rise, and the body temperature also starts to become normal. It is believed by scientists that a conscious part of the sleeping brain is responsible for dreams. This conscious part of the brain has cognitive, sensory and emotional occurrences, leading to dreams. Dreams are usually life-like, complete with people objects themes voices and color. These things can often have a close resemblance to waking life. But dreams can also be about unfamiliar things. Some dreams can seem real because they are very vivid. Such dreams are usually remembered for a long time. Nightmares are also dreams, but only frightening or traumatic.

Deja Vu and Dreaming

We have all had the feeling of Deja Vu at some point. Deja Vu (French for “already seen”) is a sense of familiarity about something unfamiliar. For instance, you go to a place for the first time but feel like you have already been there before because it feels familiar. Why does that happen? Even science doesn’t have the answer to that. However, there is a possibility that the sense of Deja Vu has something to do with dreaming. A dream plays out just like real life, full of people and objects, colors, sounds, and voices. Sometimes dreams are about things, places or people we are unfamiliar with. But dreams can also be about things and events we are familiar with. When we dream of familiar people, places or events, they are actually bits and pieces of memories that are stored in our subconscious. Deja Vu is different from a vision. A vision is when something seems familiar because you remember having seen or experienced it before. But in Deja Vu, you have no idea why something seems familiar because you don’t remember seeing or experiencing it before. The dreams that we don’t remember might be the ones that appear as Deja Vu. However, there hasn’t yet been any fundamental proof to establish why we experience Deja Vu.

Is Deja Vu Precognitive?

Deja Vu is often assumed to be precognitive, in that they may be capable of predicting the future. However, there is no evidence to prove that dreams or feelings of Deja Vu are precognitive. If anything, then it’s purely coincidence. But dreams are called precognitive if you experience the same thing later in real life, even though you may not recall it. There is no evidence yet to prove that dreams can predict significant future events, but when it comes to déjà Vu, it could be something that our dreams tell us from beforehand.

New Theories About DejaVu

There are several new theories about DejaVu that have emerged in recent years:

Dual processing theory: According to this theory, deja vu occurs when there is a momentary delay between the processing of information in the two hemispheres of the brain. This delay causes a feeling of familiarity, as though the information has been experienced before.
Memory processing theory: This theory suggests that deja vu occurs when the brain has difficulty distinguishing between past and present experiences, leading to a feeling of familiarity.
Hologram theory: Some researchers have proposed that deja vu is a result of the brain processing information in a way that creates a hologram-like image, which can create a sense of familiarity.
Neurological disorder theory: Some studies have suggested that people with certain neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, are more likely to experience deja vu. This has led some researchers to speculate that deja vu may be related to abnormal brain activity in these individuals.
Multiverse theory: This theory suggests that deja vu may be a result of experiencing parallel universes, where a similar event has occurred in another universe, leading to a feeling of familiarity in the current universe.

It is important to note that while these theories are intriguing, they are still being researched and are not yet widely accepted in the scientific community. Deja vu remains a mysterious and fascinating phenomenon that continues to be studied and explored.

Deja vu in Popular Culture

Déjà vu is a phenomenon that has captured the imagination of many people and has been featured in various forms of popular culture, including movies, TV shows, and music. Here are a few examples:

The Matrix (1999): In this science fiction movie, the protagonist, Neo, experiences a feeling of déjà vu when he sees a black cat walk by twice in the same way. This leads him to realize that he is living in a simulated reality.
The X-Files (TV series, 1993-2002): In this popular TV show, the main characters encounter many strange and paranormal phenomena, including episodes that explore the concept of déjà vu. For example, in the episode “Monday,” a character experiences a time loop that repeats itself over and over, creating a feeling of déjà vu.
Inception (2010): In this movie, the characters use a device to enter the dreams of others and manipulate their subconscious. One of the characters describes the feeling of déjà vu as a sign that the dreamer is starting to become aware of the manipulation.
Lost (TV series, 2004-2010): This popular TV show features many mysterious and unexplained phenomena, including episodes that explore the concept of déjà vu. For example, in the episode “Flashes Before Your Eyes,” the main character, Desmond, experiences vivid flashbacks that seem to be a form of déjà vu.
Beyoncé – Deja Vu (2006): This popular song by Beyoncé uses the concept of déjà vu as a metaphor for a strong sense of attraction and familiarity between two people.

What is Jamais Vu?

Jamais vu is a phenomenon that is characterized by a feeling of unfamiliarity or unfamiliarity with a familiar situation, person, or place. In other words, it is the opposite of déjà vu. Instead of feeling like you have experienced something before, you feel like you are encountering something completely new, even though it is something you should be familiar with. Jamais vu is often described as a feeling of disorientation, confusion, or detachment. For example, a person may suddenly find themselves feeling like their own home is unfamiliar to them, or they may not recognize a close friend or family member. Jamais vu is not as well studied as deja vu, but it is thought to be related to disruptions in the brain’s processing of information. Some research suggests that it may be associated with certain neurological conditions or medications that affect the brain. While it is not clear what causes jamais vu, it is generally considered to be a relatively rare experience. It can be unsettling or distressing for those who experience it, but it is usually a temporary and harmless phenomenon.

Other Forms of DejaVu

Presque Vu

Presque vu is a phenomenon that refers to the feeling of being on the verge of remembering or discovering something, but not quite being able to do so. It can also be described as the feeling of almost achieving an insight or a solution to a problem, but not quite being able to grasp it. The term “presque vu” comes from the French language and translates to “almost seen.” It is similar to the feeling of tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon, where you are unable to recall a word or a name that you know you know. Presque vu is a common experience that most people have had at some point in their lives. It can be frustrating and can lead to a sense of mental block or difficulty in problem-solving. However, it is generally considered to be a normal variation in cognitive function and is not a cause for concern. Research suggests that presque vu may be related to the brain’s process of retrieving memories. When we try to remember something, the brain goes through a series of steps, including encoding, storage, and retrieval. Presque vu may occur when the brain is able to partially retrieve a memory but is not able to fully access it.

L’esprit de l’escalier

L’esprit de l’escalier is a French term that translates to “staircase wit.” It refers to the phenomenon of thinking of a clever or witty remark or comeback too late, after the opportunity to use it has passed. The term comes from the idea of someone leaving a social gathering or a conversation and, on the way down the stairs, suddenly coming up with the perfect response to something that was said earlier. This experience is also sometimes called “afterwit” or “afterthought.” It is a common phenomenon that most people have experienced at some point in their lives. It can be frustrating or embarrassing to think of the perfect response too late, especially if the conversation or situation was important or high-stakes. Research suggests that l’esprit de l’escalier may be related to the brain’s process of forming and retrieving memories. When we are in a conversation or social situation, the brain is constantly processing and storing information, including words, gestures, and facial expressions. L’esprit de l’escalier may occur when the brain is not able to retrieve a memory quickly enough to use it in the moment, but is able to retrieve it later, after the conversation has ended.

Tip of the Tongue

Tip of the tongue (TOT) is a phenomenon that refers to the feeling of being unable to recall a specific word or name that you know you know. It is a common experience that most people have had at some point in their lives. During a TOT experience, you may feel like the word is just out of reach or on the tip of your tongue, but you are unable to recall it. You may be able to remember some details about the word, such as the first letter or the number of syllables, but not the word itself. Research suggests that TOT experiences may be related to the brain’s process of retrieving words from memory. When we try to remember a word, the brain goes through a series of steps, including searching through the memory network and accessing the word’s phonological representation. A TOT experience may occur when the brain is not able to access the full phonological representation of a word, but is able to access some partial information about it. While TOT experiences can be frustrating, they are generally considered to be a normal variation in cognitive function and are not a cause for concern. Strategies for overcoming TOT experiences include taking a break from trying to remember the word, engaging in a distracting task, or using cues or hints to help trigger the memory.

Presque Entendu

Presque entendu is a French term that translates to “almost heard.” It is a phenomenon that refers to the feeling of almost hearing a sound or a piece of music, but not quite. It can also be described as the feeling of almost remembering a tune or melody, but not quite being able to recall it. Presque entendu is a common experience that most people have had at some point in their lives. It can be frustrating or distracting to feel like you are almost hearing something but not quite being able to hear it fully. Research suggests that presque entendu may be related to the brain’s process of retrieving memories. When we try to remember a sound or a piece of music, the brain goes through a series of steps, including searching through the memory network and accessing the auditory representation of the sound. Presque entendu may occur when the brain is able to partially retrieve the auditory representation, but is not able to fully access it. While presque entendu experiences can be frustrating, they are generally considered to be a normal variation in cognitive function and are not a cause for concern. Strategies for overcoming presque entendu experiences include taking a break from trying to remember the sound or music, engaging in a distracting task, or using cues or hints to help trigger the memory.

Capgras delusion

Capgras delusion is a rare psychiatric disorder in which a person holds the belief that a close family member, friend, or pet has been replaced by an imposter or a double. The person experiencing Capgras delusion may believe that the imposter is identical in appearance to the real person or animal, but is somehow “off” or different in some way. Capgras delusion is named after Joseph Capgras, a French psychiatrist who first described the condition in 1923. It is thought to be related to a disruption in the brain’s ability to process information about familiar faces and objects, leading to a sense of confusion or detachment. Capgras delusion is typically associated with underlying psychiatric or neurological conditions, such as schizophrenia, dementia, or traumatic brain injury. It is usually treated with a combination of medications and psychotherapy, although treatment can be challenging and outcomes can vary. While Capgras delusion is a rare condition, it can be distressing and disruptive for those who experience it, as well as for their loved ones.

What is the Circadian Clock?

08/20/202401/02/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Sleep and wakefulness have distinct patterns. If you sleep during the day for no apparent reason, you will be called lazy. Why? Because humans are supposed to remain awake and active during the day and sleep only at night. Likewise, if you are awake during the night for no reason when everyone else is asleep, your intentions will be questioned. This is because humans are supposed to sleep at night. Sleeping and waking have set times in the day. Straying from this pattern aka circadian clock is not considered common.

Now, consider your cat. When you go to bed at night, your cat continues to roam around the house, playing about or looking for prey. You do not find it unusual at all. In fact, you do not find it unusual when your cat sleeps all day and becomes active only in the night. Why? Because cats are nocturnal animals, and it’s normal if they are roaming around at night and sleeping away all day.

These distinct sleep and wake patterns are called circadian rhythms. Besides humans and animals, circadian clocks are also witnessed in plants, which release oxygen during the day but carbon dioxide during the night. The circadian clock is almost always in 24-hour rhythms and is present in every living organism.

What Is the Circadian Clock?

The word circadian is derived from the Latin term circa, which means “approximately,” and diēm, which means “day.” In humans and many other animals, this circadian rhythm is diurnal; this means that they feel active and energized during the day and feel sleepy after dark. Similarly, creatures like owls and bats are nocturnal; they sleep during the day and go out during the night.

The mechanism that controls these patterns is the biological clock. This is a 24-hour cycle influencing physical mental and behavioral changes in almost all organisms, from humans to microbes. It is the circadian rhythm that is responsible for determining sleep patterns, contributing to jet lag and is also behind morning grogginess during daylight savings. The National Institutes of Health has carried out a number of studies that show that the circadian rhythm also influences hunger, hormone production, body temperature, and cell regeneration. Conditions like obesity depression and seasonal affective disorder are also influenced by the circadian rhythm.

The circadian rhythm is responsible for so many things but what is responsible for the biological clock? The hypothalamus is what is responsible for controlling our biological clock. This clock is not made up of mechanical parts but groups of molecules that interact with one another in cells throughout the body. These molecules are governed by a master clock, situated in the hypothalamus. The group of nerves that control the biological clock from within the hypothalamus is called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN).

Factors Affecting Circadian Rhythm

The biological clock or circadian rhythm is affected by a number of factors, both internal and external. The internal factors that affect the biological clock are the genetic makeup of the person and the proteins produced by the body. In a research by the University of California, a protein was found to be crucial in controlling the circadian clock in humans, mice, fruit flies, fungi and various other organisms. The other protein balancing it is in charge of sensing energy use in cells. Any disruption in the equilibrium of these two proteins can not only lead to insufficient sleep but also increase hunger. In the long term, this imbalance in the equilibrium can cause obesity.

The circadian rhythm is also influenced by environmental factors, such as light and dark. The SCN is situated right above the optic nerves, and they send information from the eyes to the brain. This means the location of the SCN is ideal for receiving information about incoming light. When the SCN senses less amount of incoming light, it asks the brain to produce more melatonin. This is the reason why we feel sleepy on cloudy and rainy days when the sun isn’t bright or during winter when the days are shorter and evening comes fast. This is the way that the SCN controls the sleep-wake cycles.

Circadian rhythm is best experienced during jet lag. When you travel from one time zone to another, adjusting your biological clock is not as easy as changing the time on your wristwatch. Jet lag usually involves “losing” or “gaining” time, and this disruption can make the body feel disoriented, particularly when the timings of light and day are out of sync. Even though the body eventually adjusts the circadian clock to the new environment, taking a return trip disrupts it again, and requires another reset.

When to Seek Help for Circadian Rhythm?

Occasional ups and downs in the circadian rhythm are normal and shouldn’t be a cause for concern. However, if you regularly experience disruptions in your circadian rhythm in the form of one or more of these problems, you should seek help:

Delayed sleep-wake cycle: If you fall asleep two or more hours after going to bed and wake up two or more hours after the usual waking time, you suffer from the delayed sleep-wake cycle. Although this is mostly seen in teenagers, it can affect anybody.

Advanced sleep-wake cycle: This is the opposite of the delayed sleep-wake cycle. In this condition, you fall asleep several hours before the normal bedtime and wake up several hours before the regular wake time.

Irregular sleep-wake pattern: If you have no fixed time for falling asleep or waking up, you suffer from an irregular sleep-wake pattern. People with this condition can sleep on and off at a stretch or in a series of hours. This usually indicates a severely disorganized circadian pattern.

Insomnia: If you’re regularly unable to fall asleep and spend most of your time awake in bed, you suffer from insomnia. Chronic insomnia can lead to sleep deprivation, resulting in various health problems.

Circadian rhythm is the mechanism behind our sleep-wake cycles. Sticking to a proper bedtime routine and maintaining sleep hygiene is the key to a proper biological clock.

The Evolution of Sleep: How Sleep Has Changed Through History

08/20/202401/02/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Sleep is as common as breathing. We don’t need to wonder why it happens. It’s what we always do. Every living creature has a set time for sleep, including humans. It’s an intrinsic part of our daily routine, so normal that we never question our sleep habit.

The need for rest has existed since the beginning of time. Ancient humans had several other habits besides sleep that they later grew out of with the dawn of civilization. The eating habits have also changed as civilization has progressed. However, the need for sleep is something that has remained unchanged. The ancient man needed the same amount of rest that the modern man does. What has changed are the sleep habits and patterns.

While the need for sleep has remained unchanged, a lot has changed about the way people get their sleep. The ancient humans got their sleep in ways different than what we are familiar with today. Charles Darwin, the father of evolution, had first suggested the need for sleep by all living creatures. At first glance, sleep can seem like a bad idea. In fact, most people consider sleeping a waste of time. Being unconsciousness for several hours every day robs people of the time to accomplish various necessary activities. When creatures sleep in the wild, they also have the danger of being hunted down by predators. But sleep is something that everyone engages in, nevertheless.

Sleep is mostly needed because it’s a means to conserve energy and replenish the energy lost during the day. Energy is what helps us remain active and alert throughout the day, and without a period of rest, the body has no way to replenish the energy that’s being used up by the cells during the waking hours.

Changes in Sleep Patterns Over the Years

Most of us enjoy sprawling on a soft, comfortable bed in a quiet, cozy bedroom to go into snooze mode. But it wasn’t this way always. The sleep habits of humans have undergone significant changes over the centuries. Did you know that in the 16th and 17th centuries, people went to sleep as early as 6 in the evening? That’s because there was no electricity and nothing to do after dark. Turning out the lamps and going to sleep was also a way to save on energy because oil to light the lamps could be expensive.

After electricity was invented, people started going to bed later because they could work after dark. The dinner and supper times also changed, because people no longer had to go to bed because there was nothing to do. The invention of electrical and electronic devices such as the transistor and the television further influenced sleep patterns, because people enjoyed entertainment after work.

Over the years, sleep patterns, positions, timing, and bedding have undergone tremendous changes. Beginning from the early man to the Egyptians to the modern man, sleep has kept changing throughout the years.

Early Man: Very little is known of the early man’s sleeping habits. But from carvings on cave walls and other ancient documentation, it can be deciphered that they slept in beds of grass and other soft materials on the ground. Because these beds were small and round in shape, it is understood that the early men slept in the fetal position.

Ancient Civilization: At the beginning of civilization, the man had grown out of the wild stage, but still didn’t have the light of knowledge. Sleep, therefore, was a mystery, and people were scared of it. The Egyptians worshipped sleep because they considered it akin to death. With the dawn of civilization, the man had also started to make houses and beds to sleep in. For instance, the Romans had tiny bedrooms with low ceilings and small beds.

Middle Ages: In the Middle Ages, people had proper houses and rooms, but the whole family usually slept in one big bed, in order to conserve heat. Bedframes and mattresses had already been developed, while bedframes started to become ornate and decorative in China.

Industrial Revolution: This is the period when electric light sources are developed, and people start to shift from a mainly agrarian economy. Beginning from the Industrial Revolution, people start going to sleep later. They not only work after sundown but also enjoy reading and other forms of entertainment, thanks to electricity. Having separate bedrooms also becomes the norm from this time.

19th and 20th Centuries: This is the time when metal bedsprings are invented. During the latter part of the 19th century, the waterbed and the Murphy bed are invented. At the end of the 20th century, memory foam is invented and eventually becomes affordable enough for the average people.

21st Century: Sleep is a whole industry today, with various sleep aids and technologies to help people get sufficient and restful sleep. However, technology is also often the reason behind the lack of enough sleep.

Sleep Habits – Then Vs. Now

Sleep habits and practices, as well as bedding, have undergone massive change over the years. How we sleep today is dramatically different from the way our ancestors slept. From the duration of sleep to the types of beds, to the sleep patterns, everything has gone through various changes over the centuries.

During early civilization, beds were of no standard size. Beds were individually made, according to the size and preference of the person. However, today beds have standard sizes and aren’t usually made individually. Mattresses are usually customized, but bed frames are of standard sizes.

Sleep patterns have also changed over the years. Today, people have a monophasic sleep pattern, i.e., sleeping in one long chunk. However, earlier, people slept in two chunks of four hours each, with around two hours of break in between. During this break, people read, visited neighbors, or had sex. By the 1920s, this polyphasic sleep pattern had become unusual.

Bed springs were later used to support mattresses. But earlier, ropes and wool straps were used to make bedframes. Today, there are various types of bed frames, made from iron, wood, as well as engineered wood. Mattresses are also made of various materials and are often have computerized controls.

An interesting fact is that spouses slept in separate bedrooms, while all the children slept in one room. This is unlike today when spouses usually sleep in the same room while children have separate rooms.

Importance of Sleep

We tend to believe that sleep is a period of inactivity. But actually, sleep is when the body and the brain undergo various processes for rejuvenation, development, and growth. When we sleep, our body conserved energy and prepared for the next day.

Some of the things that sleep helps with are:

Learning
Memory
Mood
Appetite
Immune system
Heart health
Stress management
Weight management

Although science still cannot pinpoint exactly why we need sleep, we do know that it’s good for us. Going without enough sleep for a long time affects appetite, mood, productivity, concentration, weight, and physical health.

Benefits of Napping

When you’re sleep deprived, napping can provide much of the same benefits. Napping has been found to enhance productivity and performance, reduce accidents, and boost alertness. In some cultures, napping is a regular part of the daily routine. Workplaces have recently started making provisions for employees to nap during the day. Although napping can never make up for sleep, it helps to a great extent.

When napping, remember to set the alarm so that you wake up right after you complete one sleep cycle. Any longer, and you risk entering sleep inertia. Finding a quiet and dark place is also important. Napping is extremely beneficial to physical and mental health, so don’t feel guilty about sleeping in the middle of the day.

Stop Snorng with these Tips, Devices and Expert Recommendations.

08/20/202410/16/2018 by Ben Trapskin

Throughout the US about 70 million people suffer from unsound sleep. They don’t necessarily have to suffer from a sleep disorder; poor quality sleep or not getting the necessary hours of rest often has the same effects as a sleep disorder. Blame it on hectic work schedules or an unhealthy lifestyle, but poor sleep quality has been on the rise for the last many years. Some people suffer from chronic insomnia, some have fragmented sleep, while some people stay up because of ambient factors. Yes, believe it or not, but external factors are often responsible for causing unsound sleep. From noisy neighbors to the sound of traffic, to snoring (leading to the question how to stop snoring), various environmental factors are responsible for contributing to disturbed sleep. Sometimes the source of distraction maybe right next to us. We are talking about snoring. At the same time, snoring is both a disorder and a distraction. However, snoring is also more normal than any other sleep issue. In fact, it isn’t considered an issue at all, not until it starts to disturb the people around the snorer. Snoring is a problem that only the people around the snorer are aware of. Once the person is asleep, they do not know if they snore. In some cases, they may refuse to believe that they snore when told by others. It is often embarrassing, and not many like to admit that their snoring keeps others awake at night. Every person snores at some point. They may snore softly when in a deep sleep or when they have a cold. But it isn’t something regular or permanent. Such snoring is also quite tolerable to others around the sleeper. The problem arises when the snoring is loud enough to not only keep the people in the room awake but also disturb the others in the house even through closed doors. This is when snoring is considered a sleep disorder and needs treatment.

What Is Snoring?

Simply put snoring is the result of a blocked air passageway. It generally happens when there is an obstruction to breathing. When a person sleeps the muscles in the body relax. The problem is, in snorers, the throat muscles also relax and block the air passage. This creates obstructed air movement and does not let the person breathe freely. As a result, the strained breathing creates a noise. It is easy to simply brush aside snoring and not consider it a problem at all. But the fact is the sound of snoring can sometimes exceed 100 decibels, which is louder than the sound of a road drill. Even if the person remains unaware of the fact that he or she snores, the loud noise can cause sleep disturbances to others around him forcing them to seek remedies to stop snoring. The loudness of snoring can lead to chronic insomnia and for sleep quality in others sharing the room with the snorer. Snoring is not a problem when it is transient or because of a condition like a cold. It is also more common among men and those above middle age. Habitual snoring affects around 90 million people in the US alone. Children can also sometimes be habitual snorers, but the generally outgrow it as they get older.

What are the Most Common Causes of Snoring?

As already discussed, the primary cause of snoring is obstruction of the air passage. But the obstruction can stem from various causes. Snoring is more an annoyance than anything else. It is not readily seen as a sleep disorder or a health problem. Snoring can often remain undiagnosed, and even though it may not be dangerous for the person, it can lead to various other problems.

Most Common Causes of Snoring

Excess Weight: Overweight or obese people are more at risk for snoring. In fact, more than half of the total number of people who snore are overweight or obese. Any person with a body mass index of 29.9 or above is considered overweight, while a body mass index of 40 and above is considered obese. BMI is not always the sole yardstick for measuring excess weight. Men with a neck circumference of 17 inches or higher are also at risk for snoring. This is because overweight people have thick palates that narrow down the airway and obstruct breathing. This is not really a disorder but more of a lifestyle problem, affecting a vast number of people in the US. Alcohol: Many people are fond of consuming an alcoholic drink after dinner or before bed because they find it relaxing. Indeed, alcohol does have a relaxing effect on the body. Alcohol is known to relax all the muscles of the body including the throat muscles. When throat muscles relax, they block the airway and obstruct breathing. That is the reason why any person with sleep disorders or respiratory troubles should avoid alcohol at least two hours before bedtime. Nasal Problems: Respiratory or nasal problems can often be the reason behind loud snoring. Chronic nasal congestion and deviated nasal septum are one of the biggest physiological reasons behind snoring. Nasal congestion can have a variety of causes including allergies, common cold, sinusitis, environmental irritants, and nasal polyps. The septum is the wall between the nostrils. When it is crooked, it leads to a condition called deviated nasal septum. This causes airway obstruction and prevents normal breathing, leading to snoring. All types of nasal congestion require a medical diagnosis. Sleep Deprivation: Snoring and sleep deprivation are connected in two ways: sleep-deprived people tend to snore more, and those who snore are also usually sleep deprived. When sleep deprived people finally get to rest, they are more likely to snore than others. Sleep Position: The position in which a person sleeps is also a possible reason for snoring. Those who sleep on their back are more likely to snore than those who sleep on the sides or on the stomach. This is because when a person sleeps on the back, the air passage is narrowed down due to the relaxed throat muscles. Those who sleep on their backs and snore loudly may try changing the sleep position to see if there is any improvement.

What Habitual Snoring Can Lead To?

Snoring may not always be the problem itself. Throat muscles relax in every person when they sleep, but when it begins to obstruct the breathing, it becomes a problem. When snoring goes undiagnosed, it can lead to other issues. Some of them are: Obstructive Sleep Apnea: In several cases, snoring is a sign of a more serious disorder called obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is of a number of types, but the most common is obstructive sleep apnea, in which the air passage is blocked by the relaxing throat muscles. This not only causes snoring but also makes the breathing stop and start abruptly throughout the night. As a result, the person fails to get proper rest, wakes up with a dry mouth and throat and feels tired throughout the day. Snoring is usually the first sign of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep Deprivation: When a person snores it means the breathing is obstructed. And when the breathing is obstructed sleep is hampered. When a person fails to breathe normally, it wakes them up several times at night, leading to chronic sleep deprivation in the long run. Inability to Concentrate: Snoring causes sleep deprivation and excessive daytime sleepiness. As a result, concentration and productivity suffer and the risk of accidents at work and on the road also increases. Health Problems: Failing to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night can lead to various health problems including heart disease and the risk of strokes in heart attacks. Insufficient sleep has also been linked to hormonal imbalances and an increase in appetite and weight gain. Sleep Divorce: Relationships are often affected when one of the partners snores. In fact, it isn’t surprising to find couples who have broken up or divorced because one of them was a loud snorer. Although underestimated, snoring is a big enough reason behind the degrading of relationships.

7 Effective Remedies to Stop Snoring

Although snoring can lead to various problems, it isn’t the end of the world. Snoring can often be managed with a few easy remedies. Some of them are:

Changing Sleep Position

Since back sleepers are more likely to snore, the first remedy to try is changing the sleep position. If you are a back sleeper, try sleeping on your side for a change. If that seems difficult in the beginning use a body pillow for help. When you sleep on your side, your throat muscles do not relax into the air passage and do not obstruct the breathing. Many back sleepers who snore have reported a marked improvement when sleeping on the side.

Losing Weight

Most snorers are overweight, and in that case, losing weight is the only option. Although not too easy, maintaining the ideal body weight is one of the most effective ways to stop snoring. Following a proper diet and exercise is the best place to begin. A healthy BMI is between 21 and 25. Anything lower is underweight, and anything higher is overweight. Besides fat-burning exercises, strength training is also helpful in shedding fat, building muscles, and boosting metabolism.

Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives

Alcohol and sedatives work the same way. They relax the muscles of the body, including that of the throat. When a person consumes alcohol or sedatives before bedtime, they are more likely to snore because the throat muscles relax further under the influence of the sedatives. Habitual snorers who consume alcohol or sedatives before going to bed should avoid them. This can bring about a significant improvement in snoring.

Practicing Better Sleep Hygiene

Snoring can often be a result of sleep deprivation and a lack of sleep hygiene. Maintaining a proper bedtime routine can alleviate most of the problems. Having a fixed sleep schedule, avoiding coffee and nicotine, and taking short naps are some of the ways to bring about quality sleep and reduce snoring.

Changing Pillows

Mattresses, pillows, and sheets house millions of dust mites and allergens. No matter how many times you wash them, they keep trapping dust and allergens. When a habitual snorer sleeps on such pillows and sheets, it causes allergies and adds to respiratory distress, making snoring worse. That is why pillows and sheets should be regularly changed and kept clean all the time. Also, make sure that the pillows keep your head and neck properly supported. If possible, stack two or three pillows to keep your head elevated while you sleep.

Hot Shower

Warmth helps clear blockages in the airway, removes congestion, and ease respiratory distress. Besides, a warm bath or shower will also help you sleep deeper. This could help lessen snoring that starts in the nose. You could also keep a bottle of saltwater rinse in the shower for rinsing your nose out with to open up the nasal passages. Besides taking a hot bath or shower, you may also consider buying a neti pot to clear the nasal passages with a saltwater solution.

Staying Hydrated

When the body is dehydrated, it produces thicker fluids. When your nasal secretions become thick, it blocks the airway and causes snoring. Dehydration can be one of the biggest reasons behind snoring sometimes. There are snoring sprays that prevent the nasal passages from sticking together. Drinking enough water during the day often reduces snoring in dehydrated people. However, drinking too much water before bedtime isn’t recommended because it will only make you get up for the bathroom.

In Conclusion

The causes and treatment for snoring aren’t easy to determine without a medical diagnosis. There are anti-snoring devices such as Tongue Stabilizing Devices (or TSDs) and mandibular advancement devices that open up the airway, to prevent obstruction. These mouthpieces should always be used under the supervision of a doctor because only a healthcare practitioner will be able to determine the reason behind the snoring and suggest the right treatment options. In the meanwhile, home remedies and sleep hygiene can be tried to alleviate the distress for the snorer and others around. Snoring though may seem innocuous can be an indicator of a serious underlying health condition. It may even be affecting you in ways that might not be apparent – like affecting your sleep quality, diminishing your capabilities to concentrate on work, or even affecting your relationship with your partner. We have also created an infographic on this subject, feel free to share it with your friends and on your social networks. Happy sleeping!

Our Favorite New Anti-Snoring Devices

Smart Nora: Features: Contact-free snoring solution, customizable sensitivity, smart technology Unique aspect: A silent, non-invasive device that uses a gentle motion to adjust the user’s pillow in response to snoring Price: Approximately \$329
SleepConnection: Features: Wrist-worn device, detects snoring and sends gentle electrical pulses to change sleeping position Unique aspect: Portable and convenient, promotes side sleeping to reduce snoring Price: Approximately $59.99
Good Morning Snore Solution (GMSS): Features: Tongue stabilization device, medically tested, made of soft and comfortable BPA-free material Unique aspect: Uses tongue displacement technology to maintain open airways and reduce snoring Price: Approximately $69.95
ZQuiet: Features: Mandibular advancement device, FDA-cleared, made of soft, flexible material for comfort Unique aspect: Designed to slightly advance the lower jaw to open airways and alleviate snoring Price: Approximately $79.95
AirSnore: Features: Custom-fitted mouthpiece, mandibular advancement device, can be used with optional AirSnore drops for nasal congestion relief Unique aspect: Combines an easy-to-fit mouthpiece with natural essential oils to create a comprehensive snoring solution Price: Approximately \$49.95 (mouthpiece), \$89.95 (mouthpiece and drops)

Keep in mind that new devices may have been released since my knowledge cutoff date, so it’s a good idea to research the latest products and consult with a healthcare professional before making a decision.

Surgery for Snoring

Several surgical options are available for treating snoring. These procedures are typically considered when conservative methods, such as lifestyle changes or anti-snoring devices, have failed to provide relief. The type of surgery recommended usually depends on the specific cause of the snoring. Some common surgical procedures include:

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): This procedure involves removing excess tissue from the soft palate and pharynx, which can reduce airway obstruction and alleviate snoring. The uvula may also be removed or shortened during this procedure.
Palatal implants (Pillar Procedure): This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting small polyester rods into the soft palate. The implants stiffen the soft palate, reducing vibrations that cause snoring.
Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP): This procedure uses a laser to remove or reshape the uvula and a portion of the soft palate. The goal is to reduce airway obstruction and decrease snoring.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or Somnoplasty: This procedure uses radiofrequency energy to shrink and tighten the soft palate tissue. The process helps reduce airway obstruction and alleviate snoring.
Genioglossus advancement (GA): This surgical procedure involves repositioning a portion of the lower jaw forward. This helps to pull the tongue forward, opening up the airway and reducing snoring.
Septoplasty: This procedure is performed to correct a deviated septum, which can contribute to snoring. By straightening the nasal septum, airflow through the nasal passages is improved, potentially reducing snoring.
Turbinate reduction: This procedure aims to reduce the size of the nasal turbinates, which are structures inside the nose that can become enlarged and obstruct airflow. Reducing the size of the turbinates can improve nasal breathing and potentially reduce snoring.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), to determine the best course of action based on the specific cause of your snoring. Surgery carries inherent risks, and the benefits and potential complications should be carefully considered before pursuing this treatment option.

Why Do Fat People Snore?

Snoring is often more common in people who are overweight or obese, but there are several factors that contribute to this. The primary reason is that excess body fat, particularly in the neck and throat area, can lead to increased pressure on the airways. This additional pressure can partially obstruct the airway, causing vibrations in the surrounding tissues when air is forced through during breathing. These vibrations are what produce the sound of snoring.

Here are some factors that explain why overweight individuals may be more prone to snoring:

Excess fat in the neck and throat: People who are overweight may have extra fat around their neck and throat, which can narrow the airway and make it more prone to collapsing or becoming obstructed during sleep. This increases the likelihood of snoring.
Lower muscle tone: Individuals who are overweight or obese may have decreased muscle tone in the throat and neck, which can lead to increased airway obstruction and vibrations when breathing during sleep.
Sleep position: Overweight individuals often sleep on their back, which can cause the tongue and other soft tissues in the throat to fall back into the airway, partially blocking it and contributing to snoring.
Hormonal factors: Obesity can affect hormone levels in the body, which may contribute to changes in sleep patterns and the likelihood of snoring.
Sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is more common in overweight and obese individuals. This condition is characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete airway obstruction during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep and frequent snoring.

What Specialist Do I See About My Snoring?

It’s important to consult with qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in sleep disorders and snoring when seeking help for snoring problems. While I cannot provide you with a specific list of experts, I can offer some guidance on the types of specialists you may want to consult:

Otolaryngologists (Ear, Nose, and Throat specialists): These physicians specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the ear, nose, and throat, including snoring and sleep apnea.
Sleep Medicine Specialists: These doctors have specialized training in sleep medicine and can diagnose and treat various sleep disorders, including snoring and sleep apnea.
Pulmonologists: These physicians specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of lung and respiratory disorders, and some may have additional training in sleep medicine.
Dentists with expertise in sleep dentistry: Some dentists have specialized training in treating snoring and sleep apnea using dental appliances, such as mandibular advancement devices.
Neurologists: Some neurologists have specialized training in sleep medicine and can help diagnose and treat sleep-related disorders, including snoring and sleep apnea.

To find a snoring expert, you can:

Consult with your primary care physician for a referral to a specialist
Contact your insurance provider for a list of covered specialists in your area
Search online for local sleep clinics or specialists with positive reviews
Consult professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, for a directory of board-certified sleep medicine specialists.

Well Known Sleep Doctors

While there are many doctors and researchers who have contributed to the field of snoring research and sleep medicine, some notable pioneers in the area include:

Dr. Christian Guilleminault: Dr. Guilleminault was a renowned sleep medicine specialist and researcher who made significant contributions to the understanding of sleep apnea and its connection to snoring. He was instrumental in the development of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which is a widely used treatment for sleep apnea.
Dr. Colin Sullivan: An Australian physician and researcher, Dr. Sullivan is credited with inventing the first continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device for treating obstructive sleep apnea in 1980. This invention revolutionized the treatment of sleep apnea and snoring.
Dr. Meir Kryger: A prominent sleep medicine specialist, Dr. Kryger has contributed extensively to sleep research and is the author of several books on sleep medicine, including the “Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine.” He has conducted research on various aspects of sleep disorders, including snoring and sleep apnea.
Dr. William C. Dement: Known as the “Father of Sleep Medicine,” Dr. Dement was a pioneer in the field of sleep research. He was instrumental in establishing the first sleep disorders clinic at Stanford University and was a founding member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. While his research focused on many aspects of sleep, his work has greatly influenced the understanding and treatment of snoring and sleep apnea.

These doctors and researchers have made significant contributions to the field of sleep medicine, helping to advance our understanding of snoring and related sleep disorders. However, it is essential to recognize that the field of sleep medicine is constantly evolving, and many other researchers and clinicians continue to contribute to this area of study.

Best Books About Snoring

There are several books available that discuss snoring and related sleep disorders, offering insights into the causes, treatments, and management strategies. Here are some books that you may find helpful:

“The Sleep Doctor’s Diet Plan: Lose Weight Through Better Sleep” by Dr. Michael Breus: While not solely focused on snoring, this book discusses the connection between sleep quality, weight, and overall health, which can be relevant for individuals dealing with snoring issues.
“Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Sleep Well, Feel Better” by Dr. Ralph A. Pascualy and Sally Warren Soest: This book provides a comprehensive overview of snoring and sleep apnea, discussing the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available for these sleep disorders.
“The Sleep Solution: Why Your Sleep is Broken and How to Fix It” by Dr. W. Chris Winter: Although not exclusively about snoring, this book offers practical advice and information on various sleep issues, including snoring and sleep apnea. It helps readers understand the science behind sleep and provides guidance on how to achieve better sleep quality.
“Sleep Apnea – The Phantom of the Night: Overcome Sleep Apnea Syndrome and Win Your Hidden Struggle to Breathe, Sleep, and Live” by T. Scott Marrone and Gerald A. Smythe: This book offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing sleep apnea, a common cause of snoring. It covers a range of topics, including diagnosis, treatment options, and lifestyle changes that can help reduce snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.
“Snoring: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment” by K. S. Clifford Chao and Dr. Peter C. Gay: This book offers a detailed overview of snoring, including its causes, diagnosis, and various treatment options available. It aims to provide a comprehensive resource for those dealing with snoring issues.

These books can provide valuable insights into snoring and related sleep disorders. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing snoring issues, as they can provide personalized guidance on the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.

Most Famous Snoring Scenes In Movies

While snoring may not be a central plot point in many movies, there are several memorable scenes where snoring is used for comedic effect or to depict the character’s personality traits. Here are a few examples:

“Sleeping Beauty” (1959): In this classic Disney animated film, one of the fairy godmothers, Merryweather, is shown snoring while sleeping.
“Uncle Buck” (1989): In this John Hughes comedy, John Candy’s character, Buck Russell, is depicted snoring loudly in one scene, emphasizing his larger-than-life and somewhat unkempt persona.
“Hook” (1991): In this adventure film, the character of Smee, played by Bob Hoskins, is shown snoring while sleeping in his hammock.
“My Cousin Vinny” (1992): In this comedy, Mona Lisa Vito, played by Marisa Tomei, has a scene where she snores loudly while sleeping, to the surprise of her partner, Vinny Gambini, played by Joe Pesci.
Sleepless in Seattle” (1993): In this romantic comedy, Tom Hanks’ character, Sam Baldwin, snores loudly while asleep on the couch, which is used as a humorous moment in the film.
“Shrek” (2001): In the animated movie, Princess Fiona, voiced by Cameron Diaz, is shown snoring loudly in a scene where Shrek and Donkey are trying to rescue her.
“The Great Outdoors” (1988): In this comedy, Chet Ripley, played by John Candy, is shown snoring loudly in a scene where his wife, Connie, played by Stephanie Faracy, is trying to have a conversation with him.
“The Santa Clause” (1994): In this holiday comedy, Scott Calvin, played by Tim Allen, snores loudly while sleeping on the couch after a long night of delivering presents as Santa Claus.
“MouseHunt” (1997): In this comedy, the character of Ernie Smuntz, played by Nathan Lane, snores loudly while sleeping in the same bed as his brother, Lars, played by Lee Evans. Their snoring is so intense that it causes the bedsprings to vibrate.
“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001): In this fantasy film, the character of Rubeus Hagrid, played by Robbie Coltrane, is shown snoring loudly while sleeping on a train ride to Hogwarts.
“Ice Age” (2002): In this animated film, the character of Manny the mammoth, voiced by Ray Romano, snores loudly in a cave while the other characters, Sid the sloth and Diego the saber-toothed tiger, try to sleep nearby.
“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” (2005): In this fantasy film, the character of Mr. Beaver, voiced by Ray Winstone, is shown snoring while sleeping in his house. The snoring is so loud that it wakes up the Pevensie children.
“The Pink Panther Strikes Again” (1976): In this comedy, Inspector Clouseau, played by Peter Sellers, snores loudly while sleeping, to the annoyance of his boss, Chief Inspector Dreyfus.
“City Slickers” (1991): In this comedy, Phil Berquist, played by Daniel Stern, snores loudly while sharing a tent with Mitch Robbins, played by Billy Crystal, and Ed Furillo, played by Bruno Kirby, during their cattle drive adventure.
“The Emperor’s New Groove” (2000): In this animated film, the character of Pacha, voiced by John Goodman, snores loudly while sleeping next to Emperor Kuzco, voiced by David Spade, who has been transformed into a llama.
“Bride and Prejudice” (2004): In this Bollywood adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” Mrs. Bakshi, played by Nadira Babbar, snores loudly while sharing a bed with her husband, Mr. Bakshi, played by Anupam Kher.
“Kung Fu Panda” (2008): In this animated film, the character of Po, voiced by Jack Black, is shown snoring loudly while sleeping in the Jade Palace’s barracks, much to the annoyance of the Furious Five and Master Shifu.

These scenes depict snoring as a humorous or character-defining moment, often adding a lighthearted touch to the movie.