Neurologist Reveals Real Impact of a Glass of Wine Before Bed

A glass of wine before bed, a common ritual for many Argentinians seeking relaxation, may not be conducive to a good night's sleep, according to neurologist Stella Maris Valiensi. While the alcohol can induce drowsiness, it can also disrupt sleep patterns and exacerbate breathing issues.

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Drinking a glass of wine induces sleep, but it can fragment it. The best suggestion is not to drink every night.

Valiensi explained that although a glass of wine might relax the airways and help initiate sleep, it can lead to fragmented sleep and worsen conditions like sleep apnea. She strongly advises against making it a nightly habit, emphasizing that the potential for disrupted sleep outweighs the immediate relaxation effect.

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Drinking that glass of wine causes the airway to relax, favors apnea, and fragments sleep.

Beyond alcohol consumption, Valiensi highlighted the importance of sleep hygiene for quality rest, especially during holidays. She cautioned against the misconception that lost sleep can be fully recovered during a break, noting that only mild sleep deprivation might be partially compensated. Young people, she added, are more likely to recover some lost sleep.

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It is important not to believe that one will be able to recover all sleep during the holidays.

To promote better sleep, Valiensi recommended creating a conducive sleep environment by minimizing exposure to bright lights and loud noises before bedtime. She also touched upon the natural changes in circadian rhythms with age, where older individuals often experience shifts in sleep-wake cycles, sleeping earlier and waking earlier. However, she stressed that underlying health issues, such as pain, can also fragment sleep regardless of age, underscoring the need for a comfortable and quiet sleeping space, ideally free from screens.

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Before sleeping, one must reduce the consumption of light and loud sound.