Just Say “No”—Limiting Alcohol Intake Before Bedtime Could Reduce Snoring

We all know the relaxing effects of drinking alcohol. But according to Dr. Farhad Hakimi, a New York dentist, using it to relax before bedtime isn’t such a good idea—especially if you have sleep apnea.

Dr. Hakimi spent 12 years studying the affect of alcohol on over 3,500 patients and recently released his results. He found that limiting the intake of alcohol before bedtime can help reduce snoring in some patients. Alcohol actually increases the relaxation of the tongue and throat muscles, therefore making snoring more likely. He recommends the use of a CPAP machine or oral appliance in addition to limited alcohol intake before bed.

So…what are some other ways to relax before bedtime? Here’s a few to consider:

·         Take a hot bath

·         Ask for a relaxing massage

·         Listen to soothing music

·         Crawl into bed with a good book

·         Write in a journal to clear your head

·         Relax with meditation

How do you relax before heading to bed? If you use a CPAP machine, do you have a relaxing routine? Is it with or without your mask and headgear on?

Read more about Dr. Hakimi’s study.