What Are the Benefits of Weighted Blankets? A Scientific Perspective

Weighted blankets on sofa


Weighted blankets have gained popularity as a cozy remedy for stress and sleepless nights. While some users swear by their calming effects, scientific research on their benefits is still in its infancy. Here’s a deep dive into what weighted blankets are, how they work, and the potential advantages they offer.


What Is a Weighted Blanket?

Weighted blankets are designed with additional weight, often from materials like glass beads, pellets, or cotton filling. Their evenly distributed pressure provides a sensation of being hugged, which can promote relaxation.

Dr. Neal Walia, a sleep expert at UCLA Health, suggests the firm pressure might calm the brain’s “fight-or-flight” response, signaling a safe and calm environment. Additionally, this pressure may encourage the release of oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which is known to reduce anxiety.


How to Use a Weighted Blanket

For most adults, experts recommend choosing a blanket that is about 10% of their body weight. For instance, a 150-pound person might find a 15-pound blanket ideal.

Precautions:

  • Not for Babies or Toddlers: These blankets can restrict movement and breathing in young children.
  • Consult a Doctor: Individuals with sleep apnea, respiratory issues, or other sleep-related disorders should seek medical advice before using one.

Some users find weighted blankets too warm for summer months, and their cost can range from $50 to over $300 depending on quality, weight, and material.


Personal Experiences

Charleston banker Rhonda James was initially skeptical but quickly became a fan. “It felt like a big hug,” she said. Similarly, Lucy Taylor, a freelance writer from Wales, credits her blanket for helping ease her winter anxiety.


Do Weighted Blankets Improve Sleep?

Scientific studies on weighted blankets remain limited and inconclusive. However, some research suggests potential benefits:

  • Insomnia Relief: A study of 120 participants found that weighted blankets helped improve sleep quality.
  • Autism and Sleep: Another study showed no significant impact on sleep for children with autism but noted a preference for the weighted blanket over standard ones.
  • Chronic Pain: Research on adults with chronic pain indicated that heavier blankets might reduce pain perception but did not significantly affect sleep quality.

Should You Try One?

While evidence remains sparse, weighted blankets are generally safe for most people. Dr. Daniel Barone from Weill Cornell Medicine recommends them as a supplementary tool for patients seeking non-pharmaceutical sleep aids.

“If it doesn’t hurt and might help, it’s worth a shot,” Barone advises.


Weighted blankets offer a comforting solution for many, even if their benefits aren’t fully backed by science yet. Whether you’re battling anxiety, stress, or restless nights, giving a weighted blanket a try might just be the hug you didn’t know you needed.


Source: AP News

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