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Hormones, Metabolism & You!

47: Is Your Lack of Sleep Making You Fat? with Dr. Audrey Wells

Feb 23, 2025
Dr. Audrey Wells, a triple board-certified physician and sleep medicine expert, sheds light on the critical link between sleep and mental health. She reveals that around 70 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders, which can intensify anxiety and depression. The conversation covers practical sleep tips, the unique challenges women face, and the limitations of sleep tracking devices. Dr. Wells emphasizes the importance of prioritizing quality sleep for overall health, especially for those in high-pressure jobs and midlife.
54:03

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Sleep disturbances affect mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, highlighting the need for better sleep to improve overall well-being.
  • Hormonal changes in women can disrupt sleep quality, necessitating a tailored approach for diagnosing and treating their unique sleep issues.

Deep dives

The Impact of Sleep on Mental Health

Sleep disorders are a significant concern for many Americans, with an estimated 50 to 70 million struggling with sleep issues daily. These problems are closely linked to mental health, as every mental health disorder is affected by sleep disturbances. Anxiety and depression, the most prevalent disorders, impact a large portion of the population, with roughly 18% experiencing anxiety and 21% dealing with depression. Consequently, improving sleep quality is essential for those facing these challenges, as insufficient sleep can worsen symptoms and impair cognitive functions.

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