Which of the following can affect sleep patterns negatively?

Caffeine is known to negatively impact sleep patterns due to its stimulant properties. It is a psychoactive substance that can increase alertness and reduce the natural drive for sleep. Consuming caffeine, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, can interfere with the ability to fall asleep and can diminish the overall quality of sleep. This is because caffeine blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep, leading to difficulties in both the initiation and maintenance of sleep.

In contrast, moderate exercise typically has positive effects on sleep quality and can help a person fall asleep faster, while deep breathing exercises are often used as relaxation techniques that help prepare the body for sleep. Additionally, reading before bed can serve as a calming ritual that helps signal to the brain that it is time to wind down, promoting a smoother transition into sleep.