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One striking effect observed in individuals who consume alcohol before bed is a marked reduction in deep sleep. Deep sleep, crucial for recovery and growth hormone release, can drop by as much as 50% with just one alcoholic drink. This loss compromises the body’s ability to repair itself and may accelerate aging.
The Impact on REM Sleep
In addition to inhibiting deep sleep, alcohol profoundly affects REM sleep, which occurs predominantly in the latter half of the night. When alcohol is metabolized, its byproducts, particularly acetaldehyde, disrupt the processes that generate REM sleep. This results in a condition known as REM sleep deficit, where individuals experience vivid, often unusual dreams after a night of heavy drinking.