Matt Walker: Free radicals are a normal byproduct of life. We all create them inside of ourselves as part of the natural energy cycle. But if your levels of free radicals get too high, they become a serious problem. They will steal electrons from other components in your body and start to break them apart. When DNA is damaged, it causes mutations which lead to disease and sickness.
In today’s episode, Matt takes us on a journey exploring the fascinating world of antioxidants and their link to sleep. The theory of free radical flux and its connection to sleep is introduced, shedding light on the role of antioxidants in combating oxidative stress. Through engaging storytelling and scientific evidence, Matt explains how free radicals can cause cellular damage and why sleep evolved as a mechanism to manage their burden. The research on mutant fruit flies reveals the impact of sleep duration on vulnerability to free radical damage, highlighting the importance of quality sleep for overall health. Our host concludes by teasing the next episode, where the mortal consequences of sleep loss will be unveiled. So, grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and join us in unraveling the secrets of sleep!
Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.
The good people at InsideTracker are one of the sponsors of this week's episode, and they are generously offering a special 25% off any one of their programs for anyone who uses the above link during the time window of this episode. InsideTracker is a personalized biometric platform that analyzes your blood and your DNA to better understand what's happening inside of you and offers suggestions regarding things that you can do to better try and adjust some of those numbers, optimize them, and, as a result, optimize you.
Also sponsoring this week are those fine people at Athletic Greens, and they are generously offering 3 benefits for anyone who uses the above link for their first order: 1) a discount on your order; 2) a one-year free supply of vitamin D; 3) five free travel packs. Athletic Greens is a nutrition drink that combines a full complement of antioxidants, minerals, and biotics, together with essential vitamins. Matt’s been using it for several years now because he’s serious about his health, and because he did his research on the science and ingredients in Athletic Greens and thinks its scientific data can be taken as ground truth.
As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.
