(21-11-14) Move over white noise: pink noise may help people sleep more soundly

by Antonia 

(NaturalNews) In an effort to fall asleep faster and more soundly, many people turn to devices that create white noise, or soothing sounds across a range of frequencies. However, pink may be the new white.

According to studies, pink noise, which includes sounds at lower, more consistent frequencies than white noise, seems to help people sleep better. (1) Additionally, it's associated with memory improvement, which is beneficial especially for those suffering from Alzheimer's disease or other conditions that affect this area of the brain. (1)

Sounds that are part of the pink noise spectrum include a dripping faucet, rustling leaves and the ticking of a clock. While some may consider these sounds bothersome, their repetitive, slow pace fosters improved sleep and brain function. According to Jue Zhang, Ph.D., an associate professor at China's Peking University, pink noise means that every octave carries an equal amount of power. (2)
Pink noise helps people sleep more soundly
In a study led by Zhang in which groups of people slept at night or took naps, with some being exposed to pink noise and others not having any noise at all, it was found that those in the pink noise group slept more soundly. (3) In fact, Zhang noted that 75 percent of the study participants felt that pink noise had a positive effect on their sleep habits. (3)

In the case of memory improvement, research has shown that sounds at pink noise frequencies help regulate brain rhythms which respond favorably to the slower oscillation. (4) In turn, the part of the brain responsible for memory is enhanced, helping a person recall events.

Unfortunately, 30 percent of the population in the United States does not get proper amounts of sleep, leading to sleep deprivation. (5) Not sleeping enough can negatively impact connective tissue in the brain, many times leading to actual loss of brain tissue. (5)

In addition to trying pink noise to improve sleep, other helpful suggestions include dimming light settings on bright items like cell phone and laptop screens prior to going to bed, and not consuming caffeinated beverages later in the evening. (5)

Sources:

(1) http://www.huffingtonpost.com

(2) http://www.prevention.com

(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

(5) http://www.naturalnews.com

http://science.naturalnews.com

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