Sleep Healthy

Can’t sleep? Here are 30 tips for Insomniacs.

I was just researching the difference between Talalay latex and Dunlop latex used in latex mattresses, and came across a treasure trove of tips to help get back to sleep at night. Divine Providence, I’d say since I’ve been having trouble staying asleep all night, again. I plan to print out these tips and keep them on my bedside table.

Insomnia? 30 Simple Tips to Help You Get to Sleep offers some of the old standbys that we know work like taking a warm bath before bed and drinking warm milk or herbal tea. But how about getting a massage? Nice idea but my husband is no masseuse. He’s willing but certainly not able. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, smoking, I learned that in college.

Keep the same bedtime hours, easy now that I’m asleep by 9 pm anyway. I’m not too keen on "Don’t sleep in", which is my favorite thing to do on Sundays but I know they’re right. Also, avoid an illuminated clock. Wiggle your toes. Some ideas are really out there.

The only point I completely disagree with is to sleep on a firm mattress. You need good support for whatever position you sleep in: side, back, or stomach. The way you sleep, allergies, etc. all need to be considered when purchasing the correct mattress for light sleepers.

Next up: the difference between Talalay latex and Dunlop latex used mattresses. Guaranteed to put you to sleep.

Other Resources
Talk About Sleep - Sleep Disorder Community providing medicine news, information, and interactive support

SleepHQ.com – Links for curing Insomnia

SLEEP, DREAMS AND WAKEFULNESS One of the longest established sleep research laboratories

The Truth about Toxic Crib Mattresses and SIDS

I was relieved to read a report published by First Candle/SIDS Alliance "TOXIC GAS THEORY, MATTRESSES AND SIDS" that dispels the reports circulating that crib mattresses were causing SIDS.

This report reviewed all studies that have been done to try and substantiate the toxic gas hypothesis but found no real evidence to support the claims.

In summary, First Candle/SIDS Alliance says, "…there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the claim that toxic fumes resulting from a chemical reaction between bed-wetting and a flame retardant chemical used in infant mattresses (antimony) are a cause of SIDS."

Read the full report, which details how the theory began and refers to research done by organizations around the world that share the same position. Even experts in New Zealand, where this theory originated, do not support the claims.

They make recommendations on crib mattresses and bedding, which should be very helpful to new parents.

I still believe the only materials that should be in a crib mattress, ought to be organic. Shouldn’t baby sleep on the purest materials for a fresh start in life?

SIDS Alliance

The Clean Bedroom organic crib mattresses