There is significant profit potential in the sleep industry, driven by products such as sunrise alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and subscription services for melatonin. However, the question arises whether it’s wise to invest so much in an effort to improve sleep.
In the latest episode of season eight of the Quartz Obsession podcast, a certified sleep specialist, Dr. Michael Breus, is featured to address pressing questions about sleep. These include the expanding market for sleep products, the effectiveness of these offerings, and the biological need for sleep. The discussion seeks to unveil what happens in our brains and bodies during sleep.
Rocio Fabbro, the podcast’s host and a Quartz staff writer, introduces the episode. She emphasizes the growing concern over insomnia and a general lack of consensus among experts regarding the optimal number of sleep hours needed—ranging from six to eight.
Dr. Breus acknowledges that modern society faces unprecedented levels of stress, contributing to sleep disorders, largely triggered by factors such as technology and lifestyle choices. Historical shifts, including the advent of artificial lighting and longer working hours, have complicated our sleep patterns further.
The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding different sleep chronotypes—early birds, night owls, and those somewhere in between. Recognizing one’s chronotype can aid significantly in optimizing sleep quality and overall well-being.
With practical tips, Dr. Breus suggests maintaining a consistent wake-up time, avoiding caffeine and alcohol nearing bedtime, and incorporating regular exercise to enhance sleep.
The episode also explores the evolving landscape of sleep medicine, focusing on both pharmaceutical and behavioral treatments, including the emerging role of technology and AI in delivering sleep therapy.
Though there is much to learn and explore about sleep, listeners are encouraged to take control of their own sleep habits proactively. Dr. Breus stresses that quality, not just quantity, matters in achieving restful sleep.