As winter descends and the chill sets in, many turn to weighted blankets for warmth, but also for the promise of a better night’s sleep. These blankets, filled with materials like glass beads or pellets to provide an extra layer of heft, have become increasingly popular. But do they truly help you sleep better?
Rhonda James, a banker from Charleston, South Carolina, initially doubted the benefits when her husband bought her a weighted blanket. However, she quickly became a convert, describing the feeling as akin to “a really big hug.” James now uses her blanket to unwind while watching TV or enjoying a glass of wine. Similarly, Lucy Taylor, a freelance writer from Wales, finds solace in her weighted blanket when anxiety intensifies during the colder months, stating, “If my body’s relaxed, my mind follows suit.”
The science behind weighted blankets suggests that the additional pressure might calm the brain’s fight-or-flight response or stimulate the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the ‘love hormone.’ This could theoretically help reduce anxiety and promote sleep. However, research on their effectiveness is not conclusive. Studies are typically small and often focus on specific groups like those with chronic sleep issues or mental health conditions rather than the general population.
For instance, a study involving 120 people with insomnia found that those using weighted blankets enjoyed better sleep quality compared to those with lighter blankets. Another study with 67 children with autism showed no significant improvement in sleep quality, although both children and parents preferred the weighted option. A third study on 94 adults with chronic pain indicated that while sleep wasn’t improved, pain was better managed with a heavier blanket compared to a lighter one.
Experts suggest that if you’re considering a weighted blanket, choose one that’s about 10% of your body weight. This recommendation comes with caveats; they’re not advised for babies or toddlers due to safety concerns, and individuals with conditions like sleep apnea should consult a doctor first. The blankets can range from $50 to over $300, reflecting differences in size, weight, and materials.
Despite the limited research, the consensus among sleep experts is that there’s little harm in trying a weighted blanket if you’re prepared to invest. Dr. Daniel Barone from Weill Cornell Medicine supports this approach after other conventional treatments have been explored.
In conclusion, while weighted blankets may offer comfort and potentially aid in better sleep for some, the scientific evidence isn’t robust enough to confirm benefits for everyone. If you’re intrigued by the possibility of a “hug in blanket form,” it might just be worth giving one a try.