9 Myths About Sleep You Need to Stop Believing If You Want to Have a Great Night’s Rest

Myth: Alcohol will help you sleep

Reality: Drinking a glass of wine before bed may help you fall asleep (though some people find alcohol does the exact opposite), but that sleep will likely be anything but restorative. Alcohol—a common ingredient in sleep aids—keeps your body from producing melatonin, a necessary ingredient for a good night’s sleep. (Don’t miss these other sleep aids that work against you.) Imbibing before bedtime also interrupts your REM cycles and inhibits dreaming, both of which are likely to leave you feeling worn out rather than rested when the alarm rings. Give up on the nightcap, and you’ll also reap these health benefits of avoiding alcohol.