As sleep patterns come unstuck and more and more people complain of not getting enough shuteye, so businesses have spotted an opportunity. The entire market for sleep aids – everything from ergonomic mattresses to biomonitors, sleeping draughts, apnea devices and medication – is predicted to top $80bn by 2020.
There is, however, little science behind many of the products on the market. Comfortable bedding tends to make good sleepers sleep better, but won’t crack insomnia. Medication is a short-term solution to deal with acute conditions, but should not be used for more than a few weeks at a time.
And beware any consumer product which claims it will transform your slumber: it’s probably a load of Horlicks.