Best Doctors: Do Sleep Aids Work?
We ask the experts about blue-light glasses, melatonin supplements and weighted blankets.
Blue-light Glasses
Light emitted by electronics and the sun can inhibit the production of melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone. But Dr. Andrea Jopperi, a family medicine specialist at Summa Medical Family Practice, says these glasses, which aren’t backed by much research, may not be worth the price tag. Instead, try using the dark mode feature offered on many smartphones. “At night is when our bodies should start producing melatonin,” she says. “But when we have screens suppressing the melatonin as well, it makes it difficult to sleep.”
Melatonin Supplements
Many things can cause melatonin levels to decrease such as stress and screen time. One of the most popular doctor-recommended aids are melatonin supplements such as Olly Restful Sleep. “It could take an hour to kick in,” cautions Jopperi. “So be patient. But this aid has had the most research done and is going to be the most cost-effective.”
Weighted Blankets
Filled with materials such as glass beads or polycarbonate pellets, these blankets range from 7-25 pounds and feel like a big hug. While there hasn’t been much research to back the aid, the blanket does provide benefits. “There’s a lot of people that say that having the weight on you can actually calm anxiety and helps you to fall asleep,” says Jopperi.
The Case For Naps: Why you should probably be taking an afternoon nap.
How sleep and relaxation improves brain health.
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