There is significant profit potential in the sleep industry, which includes products such as sunrise alarm clocks, premium mattresses, sleep-tracking devices, and subscription services for melatonin. However, the question remains: should we be investing so much in improving our sleep?
Novo Nordisk, the creator of Ozempic, has developed an experimental anti-obesity pill showing promising results in early trials.
In the latest episode of Quartz’s podcast, we sit down with a knowledgeable sleep expert, Dr. Michael Breus, to delve into several pressing questions about sleep: What drives the massive market for sleep aids? Can these products genuinely aid in achieving restful sleep? What is sleep’s essential role in our lives, and what occurs in our bodies and minds during sleep?
Rocio Fabbro, a writer at Quartz and the podcast host, speaks with Dr. Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist. Dr. Breus discusses the evolution of our understanding of insomnia, noting that modern sleep disorders are primarily linked to stress and changing lifestyles. He remarks that the introduction of artificial lighting has significantly impacted human sleep patterns, causing many sleep-related issues that were virtually nonexistent before the advent of electricity.
Dr. Breus also explains how social pressures and increased screen time have contributed to sleep deprivation. He emphasizes that a staggering proportion of insomnia cases are stress-related or connected to other mental health issues.
Listeners are encouraged to consider their nighttime habits, including one common trap: engaging with phones or social media while struggling to fall asleep. Dr. Breus advises avoiding distractions and nurturing a calm environment conducive to sleep.
He also shares a unique perspective on how historical sleep patterns, like biphasic sleep (where people wake in the night to work or socialize), contrast sharply with today’s unified sleep expectations. Despite modern conveniences, many are still struggling to find balance and rest.
Moreover, Dr. Breus has developed a five-step plan to foster better sleeping habits:
1. Wake up at the same time every day.
2. Limit caffeine intake to before 2 PM.
3. Avoid alcohol three hours before bed.
4. Engage in moderate daily exercise but stop at least four hours before sleep.
5. Establish a morning routine that includes hydration and sunlight exposure.
He believes that adhering to this routine can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality within a few weeks.
Looking ahead, Dr. Breus highlights advancements in sleep medicine that he finds promising, including new pharmaceuticals targeting specific sleep issues and innovations in wearables that promote relaxation. He expresses optimism for the future of sleep health, urging individuals to take responsibility for their own sleep hygiene and habits.
The episode wraps up with mentions of Dr. Breus’s website and the free chrono quiz he offers to help people understand their unique sleep needs better.