What stops you sleeping - and how to beat it

Too much stimulation

Anything that gets your body going - caffeine, nicotine, even exercise - can delay the onset of sleep.

What to do Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol in the evenings - caffeine and nicotine are stimulants and, while a few drinks will help you nod off, alcohol is likely to disrupt your sleep later. Although exercise will help you to get a good night's rest, doing it within three hours of bedtime will leave your body too charged up to fall asleep.

The answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone and are not substitutes for professional medical advice. If you're worried, see your GP.

For more information, visit www.netdoctor.co.uk