Reader's Corner

You used to sleep like a log. Now hardly a night passes when you don’t lie awake wondering what’s wrong. For some answers (and solutions), take this true-false quiz.

• Men have more trouble sleeping than women do.
  False. Women are twice as likely to have sleep problems. One cause: hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle or menopause (think hot flashes).
• Waking in the wee hours and being up for the rest of the night are sure signs of insomnia.
  False. Waking up early is a problem only if you’re tired and groggy during the day. Otherwise, you may simply need less sleep than you used to.
• Persistent sleeplessness could mean you’re depressed.
  True. Depression often causes difficulty falling asleep and repeated awakening during the night.
• To snooze better, try a nightcap or a glass of warm milk.
  False. A drink may help you nod off, but once you’ve metabolized the alcohol you’re likely to wake up again. Warm milk hasn’t been proven to induce sleep.
• You’ll slumber more soundly if you skip your usual energizing walk and do some yoga instead.
  False. Though stretching may relax you so that you sack out fast, three 45-minute aerobic, sessions a week can increase your deep sleep by one-third.
• Valerian tea at bedtime may help you beat insomnia.
  True. Unlike melatonin, this mild sleep aid is both well tested and effective.