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Bed socks may help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
Summary
Wearing warm, breathable socks to bed is reported to dilate blood vessels in the feet and signal a lowering of core body temperature, which can support falling asleep; experts also noted breathable, non‑restrictive fabrics and clean nighttime socks to limit bacteria.
Content
Many people receive bed socks as gifts and may be tempted to stash them away, but recent reporting highlights a physiological reason to use them at night. Experts including a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a practicing GP explained that warming the feet affects body temperature in a way linked to sleep. That temperature shift is tied to small-vessel changes in the feet and to the body's circadian sleep signals. The article also discussed fabric choice, fit, and hygiene as factors mentioned by clinicians.
Key points:
- Warming the feet is reported to encourage dilation of blood vessels in the feet (distal vasodilation), which signals the brain to lower core temperature.
- A lower core temperature is recognized by circadian processes as a cue for sleep, and this was described as helping people fall asleep faster.
- Keeping feet warm overnight was reported to help maintain a stable body temperature and reduce awakenings from cold or sweating.
- Experts mentioned breathable, non‑restrictive fabrics such as wool, cotton or cashmere as preferable, and noted antibacterial materials for people prone to foot infections.
- Clinicians advised against socks that are too tight or too loose because tight socks can affect circulation and loose socks may slip off in bed.
- The article noted avoiding daytime-worn socks for bed, since used socks can carry bacteria and transfer them to bedding and mattress surfaces.
Summary:
Reported effects include faster sleep onset and fewer nighttime disruptions for people with chilled feet. Undetermined at this time.
