fall asleep quickly after a drink but then wake up multiple times throughout the night. In fact, studies show that people who drink regularly before bed often develop alcohol-induced insomnia over time.
4. It Can Interfere With Your Breathing
Alcohol’s sedative properties affect all of the body’s systems and so many people who drink before bed have trouble breathing properly. A depressed respiratory system can result in your airway closing more easily and leading to obstructive sleep apnea.
If this happens, you’ll be waking up more often to resume breathing. Worse yet, you may not be aware of how often you had to wake up during the night to breathe properly. Even if you don’t develop sleep apnea, you’re also likely to snore, which is another sign that your respiratory system is struggling.
5. You’ll Wake Up More Frequently
Apart from the issues listed above, drinking before bed typically increases how often you get out of bed. Alcohol digests slowly in your system and so you’ll find that you have to get up more often to urinate.
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When you finally sleep, it’s likely that you’ll be dealing with vivid dreams and nightmares that can make it seem as if you haven’t slept. Additionally, some people have reported incidents of sleepwalking.
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What’s The Alternative?
It can be a little more involved, but it’s better to develop a relaxing routine before bed. This can include a warm bath, relaxation exercises, and drinking a cup of calming tea like chamomile.
Reducing noise and bright lights in your bedroom can also help get you to sleep. By getting a good night’s sleep, you’ll contribute to your overall wellness too. If you still feel the urge for a drink, experts suggest keeping it to one glass and having it at least four hours before bed.
Many people have a drink before going to bed because of the belief that it will help them sleep. It’s true that you may fall asleep quickly but you won’t stay that way. Additionally, the effects of that glass of liquor will last well into the next day and affect how well you can handle your tasks. It’s a much better idea to use a bedtime routine and leave the drinking for recreational times.
