In recent months, the trend known as “sleepmaxxing” has gained significant traction on social media platforms like TikTok. This term encompasses various strategies and products that individuals use to enhance their sleep quality and duration. Strategies include consuming supplements such as magnesium and melatonin, eating kiwis before bedtime, and even practices like mouth-taping.
Dr. Sam Kashani, a sleep medicine specialist, describes sleepmaxxing as an evolved form of sleep hygiene, aimed at optimizing sleep. While he acknowledges the positive intent behind the trend, he cautions against becoming overly fixated on sleep optimization.
Popular sleepmaxxing techniques include avoiding liquids before bed, using white-noise machines, and maintaining a cool bedroom environment. Experts generally endorse these methods if they help individuals achieve the recommended seven hours of sleep per night. However, the effectiveness of specific strategies varies among individuals. For example, some people find weighted blankets or meditation beneficial, while others may not experience the same results.
Critics point out that many sleepmaxxing practices lack robust scientific backing. For instance, while eating kiwis is generally healthy, there is insufficient evidence to support claims that they significantly improve sleep. Similarly, experts are skeptical about more unusual practices, such as mouth-taping, due to potential risks like obstructed breathing.
Moreover, reliance on sleep tracking devices may lead to unhealthy obsessions with sleep quality, a phenomenon known as orthosomnia. Experts recommend focusing on healthy sleep habits rather than fixating on metrics. If sleep difficulties persist, consulting a healthcare professional is advised, as they can offer more tailored solutions than social media trends.