A glass of wine can feel like the perfect way to unwind. But while alcohol may help you fall asleep faster, it disrupts what your body does after you drift off.

🌟 Today’s Sleep Tip: Alcohol & REM Sleep

  • Alcohol suppresses REM sleep (the stage linked to memory, mood, and learning).

  • It fragments your rest, leading to more wake-ups at night.

  • Even small amounts can reduce sleep quality — especially if consumed late.

👉 Rule of thumb: Cut off alcohol at least 3 hours before bed.

🛠 Quick Sleep Hack: The “Mocktail Swap”

Want the ritual without the disruption? Try:

  • Sparkling water with lime + herbs

  • Tart cherry juice (contains natural melatonin)

  • Herbal mocktail blends (chamomile, lavender, hibiscus)

📊 Poll: How often do you drink before bed?

How often do you drink before bed?

Login or Subscribe to participate

🔖 Sleep Pick of the Week

De Soi Non-Alcoholic Apéritifs — created by Katy Perry, these botanical blends offer the same ritual without the alcohol.
👉 Explore here

🤝 Share ZzzBrief

Got a friend who swears they “sleep better with wine”? Forward this and let the science do the talking.

🌙 Ending

That’s it for today’s ZzzBrief. Tonight, try swapping that glass of wine for a mocktail — your REM sleep will thank you.

Sweet dreams,
Bri

P.S. I’m not a doctor — just sharing research and practical tips. Always talk with your healthcare provider before making big changes to your sleep or health routines. Some links I share may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them (at no extra cost to you).

Keep Reading

No posts found