Do grounded bedsheets do anything? do they increase testosterone or other quality of life/performance metrics?

Based on the available scientific research, here's what we know about grounded/earthing bedsheets and their effects:

1. Sleep Effects:

- A 2024 study in rats found that using an earthing mat for 21 days significantly:

- Reduced wake time

- Increased REM sleep

- Increased NREM sleep

- Increased total sleep time

- The effects were better than a regular electronic blanket

2. Biological Mechanisms:

- Earthing appears to work through several pathways:

- Decreases orexin (a wake-promoting neurotransmitter) in the brain

- Increases SOD (superoxide dismutase), an important antioxidant enzyme

- May promote alpha wave activity in the brain, associated with relaxation

3. Other Reported Benefits:

- Various studies have suggested potential effects on:

- Inflammation reduction

- Pain management

- Stress reduction

- Overall mood improvement

4. Testosterone Specifically:

- There is no direct scientific evidence showing that grounded bedsheets affect testosterone levels

- No controlled studies have specifically measured testosterone changes with grounding

5. Quality of Evidence:

- Most studies are relatively small

- Many are animal studies rather than human trials

- More rigorous research is needed to confirm benefits

- Some studies have potential conflicts of interest with manufacturers

Conclusion:

While there is some promising evidence that grounded bedsheets may improve sleep quality and have anti-inflammatory effects, claims about testosterone or specific performance metrics are not well-supported by current research. The strongest evidence points to potential benefits for sleep quality and reduction of inflammation through antioxidant pathways. Anyone interested in trying grounded bedsheets should maintain realistic expectations and view them as a potential sleep aid rather than a hormone or performance enhancer.