THE SLEEP REPORT
The What's What and Who's Who of Sleep
DEBUNKED: THE GENDER SLEEP NEED GAP
Despite viral claims that women need "dramatically more sleep" than men, science says otherwise: Dr. Bertisch of Brigham and Women's Hospital confirms: "There is no evidence that there is a fundamental biological reason women need more sleep." Studies have found women do spend about 11 minutes longer in bed but aren't necessarily sleeping better. Between hormone fluctuations, being five times more likely to wake for caregiving, and higher rates of undiagnosed sleep disorders, women face unique challenges when it comes to rest.
The real measure of good sleep isn't time spent horizontal—it's how refreshed you feel the next day. For anyone struggling with sleep quality, addressing specific disruptors rather than simply extending bedtime might be the more effective approach.
THE SOUND OF ZZZS: GEN Z'S AVERSION TO SILENCE
Nearly half of Gen Z (49%) relies on white noise to fall asleep, compared to just 32% of Baby Boomers. This striking generational gap raises the question: why the difference? Sleep experts point to digital immersion creating minds unaccustomed to silence. For those raised with constant notifications, white noise provides "a consistent auditory environment that the brain finds relaxing."
This trend reflects a broader adaptation to our hyper-connected reality—the need for auditory transition between digital stimulation and sleep. No wonder customizable soundscapes have become essential features in modern sleep tech.
SCREEN TIME: THE HIDDEN COST TO YOUNG EYES
New research delivers a wake-up call: each additional hour of daily screen time increases myopia risk by 21% in young people. Already nearsighted? That extra hour raises the odds of worsening vision by 54%. With projections suggesting 40% of children worldwide could have myopia by 2050, this increased risk likely results from young people not spending enough time outdoors and focusing on things up close for prolonged periods. Suggesting it's well worth it to trade scroll time for stroll time.
TWEET DREAMS: BIRDSONG AS MENTAL MEDICINE
Recent research confirms what many instinctively feel—birdsong is good for the mind. Studies show exposure to these natural melodies significantly reduces anxiety, while traffic noise increases depression. Even more fascinating: diverse birdsong soundscapes actually lowered paranoia levels in participants.
For urban dwellers with limited access to singing birds, high-quality nature recordings offer a simple yet effective mental health intervention. This research highlights the profound connection between biodiversity and human wellbeing—making conservation efforts not just environmental priorities but public health imperatives.
REST & RINSE: HOW SLEEP AIDS MUDDY YOUR BRAIN'S CLEANING CYCLE
Your brain has its own nighttime cleaning system—the glymphatic system that works like "turning on the dishwasher before bed and waking up with a clean brain." This remarkable process flushes out toxic buildup while you sleep. Emerging research has recently flagged that some sleep medications may be disrupting this process.
While human studies are still pending, this adds an important dimension to medication decisions. Dr. Nedergaard, who studies this system, emphasizes the importance of understanding what truly constitutes "restorative sleep." Those currently using prescription sleep aids should consult healthcare providers before making changes, but perhaps natural sleep solutions deserve priority placement in your nighttime routine.
BEDSIDE WATER: SPILLAGE AND COURAGE
According to The Onion this week, local man Andrew Gomez recently shared his nightly ritual of placing a glass of water on his bedside table—not just for convenience, but apparently for "the thrill of potential disaster." He's grown accustomed to the possibility of creating "a huge, sopping mess" during nocturnal water quests. We applaud him for his dedication to well-hydrated sleep.
While Gomez's article is just meant to catch a few laughs, we know those midnight fumbles are all too familiar. Nightlights are a great fix and provide just enough glow to navigate nighttime sips without creating a splash zone.
NIGHTCAP RECAP
I've been mulling over this month's sleep stories with my evening tea. What strikes me is how we're constantly balancing between our devices and our biology. Our kids' eyes are feeling the strain of screens while our brains crave the simple chirp of birdsong.
At Loftie, that's our sweet spot—creating tech that works with our human wiring, instead of against it. Whether through our nature-inspired soundscapes or circadian-friendly lighting, we're the bridge between modern life and ancient biology.
Until next month, may your brain's dishwasher run smoothly and your water stay safely in its cup!
Sleep well,
Matt Hassett
Founder & CEO, Loftie
The Sleep Report is published monthly by Loftie. For more information on sleep science and helpful products, visit byloftie.com.