Caffeine Reduces Deep Sleep Even When Consumed 6 Hours Before Bedtime
Does Caffeine Affect Your Sleep Quality Even Hours After Consumption?
Yes, and the effects are more persistent than most people realize. This EEG research found that caffeine significantly reduces delta wave activity—the brain waves associated with deep, restorative sleep—even when consumed 6 hours before bedtime. While people may still fall asleep normally, the quality of their sleep is compromised, with reduced slow-wave sleep and less restorative deep sleep phases. This research reveals that caffeine’s half-life of 5-7 hours means afternoon coffee can still be disrupting your sleep architecture hours later.