Is It Bad to Drink Alcohol Before Bed?

Having a drink before bed is something many people enjoy as a way to unwind or relax. Sharing a nightcap can also be a way for people to carry on an intimate conversation while winding down for the evening. IT seems innocuous and like a calming ritual, but is a drink or two actually bad for us before bed?

Drinking May Lead to Muscle Aches

When the body's blood alcohol level increases, it can lead to a buildup of lactic acid in the bloodstream. This means it’s more likely for muscles to cramp up or spasm. Hydration during and immediately after as well as upon rising may help reduce the severity.

Alcohol Causes Blood Sugar to Fluctuate

Drinking any type of alcohol may cause blood sugar levels to rise or otherwise fluctuate. For healthy people, the rise in glucose will be corrected by insulin. But for chronic drinkers or those with pre-diabetes or diabetes, it might lead to insulin resistance or the need for insulin medication. 

Uncontrolled high blood sugar can be detrimental to health in several ways, but especially in how it may affect the kidneys. For those at higher risk, blood glucose should be monitored closely the following day after partaking in a late-night cocktail.

It Might Interrupt Sleep Schedules

A glass of wine or beer before bedtime might be alright, occasionally. Over time, however, it may affect our circadian rhythm or natural sleep cycle. When night falls, our bodies naturally send signals to our brains to slow down and take it easy. When we drink, our bodies may force us to sleep earlier and longer than we should. Though in some people the opposite happens, they fall asleep sooner but as soon as the alcohol wears off, they find themselves awake in the middle of the night and unable to get back to sleep. These disruptions may cascade and affect sleep schedules even on nights when we don’t drink. 

It May Affect Cognitive Behavior

Drinking before bed might negatively affect cognitive behavior at that time but also well into the next day, affecting aspects like decision making and memory. We may have trouble performing tasks the next day. Grogginess, sleepiness, slowed reaction times and impaired decision-making may lead to poor job performance and dangerous situations.

Tossing back a mixed drink, a glass of wine or a nice lager before bed isn't an issue for most people on occasion…but routine alcohol consumption may have severe, long-term effects. In the case of overindulgence, it's important to take care of yourself. Drink fluids, eat a healthy snack and never drink and drive. And be sure to consult a healthcare provider for guidance if you have any questions about alcohol intake or sleep disruptions.

We've also covered a more in-depth look in our alcohol series. Part one is here, and part two is here.

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