Can’t Sleep? Try to Avoid Having a “Night Cap”

Reviewed by Dr. Victor Marchione, MD.
Written by Mohan Garikiparithi
Published on

This past weekend, I went away with some family. We rented a place up north for some rest. And although I felt well-rested and relaxed while I was up there, I do not feel as recharged as I would like.

The reason was that I didn’t sleep well the last night. It was a comfy bed in a tranquil, dark room. It couldn’t have been more perfect for a great sleep. The problem, however, is that I elected to have a few drinks between dinner and bedtime. The result was tossing, turning, and an inability to fall into a deep sleep.

Alcohol is a depressant, which is what’s led to the myth of the night-cap. The idea is that booze makes people tired, which it does, so you should drink it before bed. But even though it makes you feel sleepy, it does not promote good quality sleep.

One review of 27 studies shows that total alcohol may have short-term effects on sleep, like helping people go down quicker, but it reduces rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This means it reduces overall sleep quality and inhibits sleep ability in the latter half of your overnight slumber. Reduced REM sleep makes it harder to dream and does not allow the brain to adequately restore itself, consolidate and store memories, and provide the proper recharge needed to have a productive day. When REM sleep is slashed, you’re more likely to feel drowsy the next day, have a hard time concentrating, and not feel your best.

One glass of wine with dinner may not do much to diminish sleep. But a second glass, and then maybe an after-dinner drink in the evening can start to influence sleep in a negative way. And the more you have, the more pronounced the problem.

If you’re struggling with sleep, don’t turn to alcohol—it won’t help. And if you’re going away for a relaxing and restorative weekend, cap your evening drinks at one or two! I wish I did!

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On any matter relating to your health or well-being, please check with an appropriate health professional. No statement herein is to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventative, or cure for any disease, disorder or abnormal physical state. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Foods and Drugs Administration or Health Canada. Dr. Marchione and the doctors on the Bel Marra Health Editorial Team are compensated by Bel Marra Health for their work in creating content, consulting along with formulating and endorsing products.

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