Summary
A study from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that using pink noise sleep machines may reduce deep and REM sleep in adults. While the study was not conducted on babies, researchers warn that similar effects might occur in infants and toddlers, who need REM sleep for brain development.
Key Facts
- Pink noise is a gentle noise similar to the sound of steady rain.
- Researchers found that when adults were exposed to pink noise, they experienced around 20 minutes less REM sleep compared to sleeping without noise.
- REM sleep is important for emotions, learning, and brain growth.
- Babies often spend more time in REM sleep than adults.
- The study cautions that using pink noise could have negative effects on babies, possibly affecting their sleep quality and development.
- Pink noise is often used because it is thought to be more natural and soothing compared to white noise, which sounds more like static.
- Experts advise keeping sleep machine volumes low and distant from sleeping areas to avoid possible negative effects.
