No More Nightcaps

Despite what Don Draper may say, seeing yourself off to bed with a nighttime tipple is not going to make you sleep any better. "Alcohol is the most commonly used over-the-counter treatment for insomnia in the country," says Dr. Arand. "While alcohol is initially a depressant — it will make you feel relaxed and sleepy — after it is metabolized three or four hours later, there is this secondary stimulation or arousal affect from the alcohol wearing off. So, you might find yourself awake at 2 in the morning and unable to fall asleep because your brain is stimulated and is now bouncing back from being slowed down."

If you plan to be out partying and still expect to get a good night's sleep, Dr. Arand says to be sure to drink lots of water while you booze it up — and try to eat some food. This will speed up your metabolism and help lessen the overall effect of the alcohol on your system.