Medical Truths You Didn’t Know
Have you ever noticed how easily kids fall asleep? As we age, sleep becomes trickier. Many people assume that falling asleep is just about turning off the lights and lying down—but there’s more going on under the surface!
Why You Might Be Waking Up Too Early
Ever wonder why older adults tend to wake up at the crack of dawn? That’s not just a quirk of aging—it’s partly biological. As we get older, our internal clocks shift. Our body begins lowering its temperature earlier in the evening to prepare us for rest.
Warm Beds Might Feel Good—But They Hurt Your Sleep
Electric heating pads and blankets may feel cozy, but they can actually reduce your sleep quality. When your body temperature doesn’t drop properly before sleep, melatonin (the sleep hormone) can’t do its job effectively. Experts recommend keeping your room between 64°F–68°F (18°C–20°C) for the best results.
The Surprising Role of Hands and Feet
Your hands and feet play a key role in lowering core temperature before sleep. A warm soak in a foot bath or gentle warm hand rinse 30 minutes before bedtime helps blood flow and accelerates heat release, which supports falling asleep faster.
What to Drink Before Bed? Milk… Maybe
Warm milk can help—but don’t go overboard. Too much can spike your blood sugar and actually disrupt sleep. A small glass is enough to provide calming calcium without the downside.
Takeaways for Deeper Sleep
- Keep your room between 64°F and 68°F
- Avoid using strong electric heating pads or thick blankets
- Take a warm foot soak before bed
- Don’t overeat or drink too much sugar before sleeping
Better sleep doesn’t come from being *hot* and *cozy*—it comes from being *cool* and *balanced*. Try these tips and you might just sleep like a kid again.