Experts say sleeping pills are as bad as cigarettes

If you're one of the millions of Americans who can't seem to get a good night's sleep - chances are you've tried a trick or two to get zzz's.

But when warm milk isn't cutting it - it's easy to pop a sleeping pill.

Doctors warn though that sleeping pills carry seriously dangerous side effects.

CNN reports a sleep researcher from Arizona State University says using sleeping pills is as big a threat as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day.

They also cause infections and are even worse for old people because they can also cause falling and dementia.

And The Guardian has previously reported on a study that linked sleeping pills to an increased risk of Alzheimer's.

Instead, the Arizona-based expert suggests exercising to get more sleep.

And it's not just some rouse to get you to the gym.

I mean yes hitting the treadmill burns calories and is healthy but it can also help you fall asleep

A smaller waistline and more shut eye?

Now that's what we call a win-win