CNN Reporter's Shocking Discovery: How Alcohol Ruins Your Sleep

Alcohol's Impact on Sleep: A CNN Reporter's Experiment at the University of Michigan Sleep Lab Ann Arbor, MI – CNN national correspondent Randi Kaye recently participated in a unique experiment at the University of Michigan's Sleep and Circadian Research Laboratory to explore the effects of alcohol on sleep quality. The study, conducted on May 15, 2025, involved monitoring Kaye's sleep patterns using electrodes after she consumed alcoholic beverages. The results revealed that while alcohol initially facilitated sleep onset, it significantly disrupted later stages of sleep, resulting in lighter, less restorative rest. Kaye described the experience, stating, "I was all wired up before bed...to see if I or anyone can truly get a good night's rest after drinking alcohol." Sleep psychologist J. Todd Arnedt, Ph.D., from the University of Michigan Health, analyzed the data and explained, "Even a couple of drinks close to bedtime will have an adverse effect on your sleep." He noted that alcohol's sedative effects wore off around 2:00 AM, leading to lighter sleep and disruptions in breathing patterns. The study highlights the importance of understanding alcohol's impact on sleep. Arnedt's advice is to consume alcohol several hours before bedtime and eat a lot of food to slow down its absorption. This experiment provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between alcohol and sleep, offering practical advice for those who occasionally consume alcohol before bed.