Sleeping Smart

Video 4: Alcoholic Beverages and Sleep

“One sleep myth I’ve heard too often is that people think they can have alcohol or wine with their sleep aid, to help them get to sleep faster. Click around in the video to find out more.

Some people even think that alcohol is their sleep aid. It’s okay to enjoy a glass of wine every now and then - however, even though alcohol can provide a sedating effect, it actually causes more awakenings during the night.

Sleep medications should not be used with alcohol or other drugs. Take your medication safely and appropriately. In addition, avoid nicotine altogether, and avoid caffeine close to bedtime.”

Klickable hotspots:

1. Dr. Donnica: Donnica Moore, MD, President of the Sapphire Women's Health Group and Women's Health Expert.
2. Glass of wine: Enjoy your alcohol responsibly. Be smart - don’t ever use it with your sleep aid.
3. Prescription Bottle: Are you following your healthcare professional’s instructions about how, when and with what to take this?
4. Alarm clock: If you have not been having a good night’s sleep, it’s time for a wakeup call! Write down your sleep symptoms in a sleep diary to share with your healthcare professional.
5. Pillow: You might think that if you don’t get enough sleep during the week, you can just catch up over the weekend, but you really should try to stick to the same sleep schedule all week long.