The trending practice of mouth taping to improve sleep quality and athletic performance has sparked significant concern among health professionals. Dr. Jennifer Gourdin, a sports medicine physician from Maryland, warns that this method is not only largely unproven but also poses serious health risks.
- Mouth taping trend is largely unproven.
- Potential health risks include restricted breathing.
- Nose breathing is theorized to improve sleep.
- No FDA-approved mouth tapes exist.
- Alternative sleep tips include a calming routine.
- Minor improvements noted for mild sleep apnea.
Mouth taping involves placing tape across the lips to promote nose breathing during sleep. While it’s gaining traction on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Dr. Gourdin emphasizes that the supposed benefits, such as enhanced oxygen levels and reduced snoring, lack strong scientific backing. As of 2025-07-10 13:22:00, there is no FDA-approved mouth tape deemed safe for use.
This raises an important question: Is mouth taping a safe solution for sleep improvement? The answer is complex. While some believe it aids in better breathing, the risks, especially for those with conditions like sleep apnea, can outweigh the benefits. Consider these recommendations:
- Establish a calming bedtime routine.
- Limit screen time and caffeine intake before sleep.
- Maintain a cool, dark sleeping environment.
- Try side sleeping to enhance breathing.
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