Insomnia can be infected: how a genetic factor affects sleep
Canadian scientists have concluded that insomnia can be “infected” from relatives suffering from this sleep disorder. More than 3 thousand people took part in the scientific experiment, and more than 40% of them reported that they had at least one relative who also suffered from insomnia. Moreover, the more relatives who suffer from this sleep disorder, the higher the likelihood that other family members will also develop it.
Scientists believe that genetic factors play a key role in the occurrence of insomnia. If a person has a relative who suffers from this sleep disorder, then the likelihood that he will also face this problem is higher. This is because sleep disorders can be passed on through genes.
However, along with the genetic factor, the emotional reaction to the condition of insomnia can also have an impact on the problem. If a person sees that a relative reacts emotionally to insomnia, then later he may have the same reaction to sleep disturbance. And this can lead to insomnia becoming chronic.
If you have trouble sleeping, don't immediately turn to sleeping pills. Certain foods can help improve your sleep quality. For example, before going to bed, you can drink a glass of warm milk and eat a bun with sesame seeds and a slice of hard cheese. These products contain amino acids, which, in combination with B vitamins, provide a sleep-inducing effect.
Thus, insomnia can be inherited in the family and passed on through genes. However, the emotional reaction to a problem can also influence its development. If you have trouble sleeping, it's worth talking to a specialist or trying simple and safe ways, such as eating certain foods, to improve your sleep quality.