Key Takeaway
Grounding during sleep normalized cortisol secretion patterns and improved sleep quality in subjects with sleep dysfunction and chronic pain.
Summary
This pilot study examined the effects of sleeping grounded on cortisol levels and subjective sleep quality. Participants slept on conductive mattress pads connected to the earth ground for 8 weeks.
Results showed that grounding normalized the diurnal cortisol rhythm - cortisol was higher in the morning (when it should be) and lower at night. Participants also reported improved sleep, reduced pain, and decreased stress levels.
This was one of the first studies to measure objective physiological changes from grounding, though the small sample size and lack of blinding limit the conclusions.
Methods
- 12 subjects with sleep and pain complaints
- 8 weeks sleeping on grounded mattress pads
- Cortisol measured via saliva samples
- Subjective sleep quality questionnaires
Key Results
- Cortisol rhythms normalized toward healthy pattern
- Subjective sleep quality improved
- Pain and stress levels reduced
- Morning cortisol increased, evening decreased
Limitations
- Small sample size (n=12)
- No control group or blinding
- Subjective outcomes may be placebo
- Industry-funded study