Can poor liver function cause insomnia and vivid dreams?

Liver dysfunction may lead to insomnia and vivid dreams. From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver is closely related to emotions and the circulation of Qi and blood. When liver function is impaired, it can often result in stagnation of liver Qi, excessive liver fire, or deficiency of liver blood, all of which can affect emotional state and sleep quality. From the Western medical perspective, impaired liver function may cause metabolic disturbances, accumulation of toxins affecting the nervous system, or endocrine disorders that interfere with the sleep cycle. If accompanied by diseases such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease, the release of inflammatory factors may further worsen sleep disturbances. However, specific causes must be considered in the assessment—for example, alcoholic liver disease is often associated with malnutrition, which can further impact sleep quality.

It is recommended to adjust daily routines to avoid staying up late, thereby reducing the burden on the liver. Sleep environments should also be improved, with consistent sleep schedules maintained. In terms of diet, reduce intake of greasy and high-sugar foods, and increase consumption of foods rich in B vitamins and proteins, such as fish and legumes, to aid liver cell repair. Moderate exercise, such as walking or yoga, may also help promote Qi and blood circulation, although strenuous activity that increases fatigue should be avoided. If insomnia persists, TCM regulation under medical supervision, such as using sedative herbs like Ziziphus jujuba (suan zao ren) and Salvia miltiorrhiza (dan shen), or short-term use of sleep aids may be considered. Regular follow-up tests of liver function are advised, and targeted treatment should be implemented once the underlying cause is identified, aiming to address sleep problems at their source. Individuals who habitually stay up late should gradually adjust their biological clock, increase exposure to daylight during daytime hours, and avoid electronic screen stimulation before bedtime. If anxiety or emotional distress is present, psychological counseling or meditation may help alleviate stress.