REM sleep too low

[tulobko1]

On average I get about 5%~ REM sleep. What could be the reason for this?

I just got 24% and 1 whole hour of REM in about 5h of sleep after a night of drinking and I thought alcohol made sleep worse?

My deep sleep has always been fine around 25%

Moderator edit: updated subject for clarity

[RiekoC]

Hello @tulobko1 

My apologies if you've already reviewed the information on this help page regarding sleep stages (<-- click link).

Fitness trackers, including Fitbit, use various metrics to track sleep & sleep stages, which can give less than accurate results. The most accurate way to track sleep stages is by using a device that measures brain waves.

I personally don't know what causes us to have less than ideal amounts of REM or Deep sleep or a definite way to improve these sleep stages. Articles that I've read about sleep mention having "good sleep hygiene" that includes having consistent times to go to bed & wake up, reducing technology usage before going to sleep, room environment, etc. I think I have pretty good sleep hygiene, yet I still have nights where I get very little REM and/or Deep sleep.

If you're having problems with being alert or are really tired during the day, you might consider discussing your sleep with your healthcare provider. Based on your medical history, they could offer suggestions to improve your nightly sleep.