Why a good night's sleep could save your marriage

FORGET dinner dates or showering your loved one with gifts. 

The key to a successful marriage could simply be getting an early night, scientists say.

They found that a good night's sleep makes you less likely to take your partner for granted. You are also more likely to say "thank you", ensuring they feel appreciated.

The researchers, from the University of Berkeley, California, studied 60 couples aged 18 to 56, with each participant keeping a diary of how many hours they slept each night and how much they appreciated their other half. The couples were also asked to work together in problem-solving tasks.

Those who slept well worked better together in the tasks and encouraged each other.

They also recorded in their diaries that they appreciated their partner more and regularly showed gratitude to them.

Amie Gordon, who led the study, said: "Poor sleep may make us more selfish as we prioritise our own needs over our partner's.

"You may have slept like a baby but if your partner didn't, you’ll probably both end up grouchy."