Newspaper doc gives insomnia tips

Dr Gott, the resident doctor at the San Bernadino Sun, has given a reader some tips on how to get a good night's sleep.

A 49-year-old male claimed that he could only get to sleep sitting up in his couch - rather than laying horizontally in bed - and worried this could harm his back.

While sleeping in such a fashion could potentially cause stiff muscles, the doctor said he did not think it would be otherwise dangerous, but named other helpful remedies to aid restful sleep.

Dr Gott said: "Some people experience remarkable results with the oldest home remedy, warm milk."

He also recommends melatonin, a naturally occurring chemical in the brain that can encourage sleep.

MayoClinic.com notes that dairy foods are tryptophan - an amino acid converted into serotonin and melatonin by the body.

People who prefer to sleep in unusual positions may be interested in divan beds from Tempur, or an adjustable bed with a Tempur mattress made of a material that shifts to their unique body shape.

Classic Bed Company is the UK's premier bed store for ultimate comfort and luxury offering Tempur, Vi Spring, Willis Gambier, French sleigh beds and contemporary beds online.