Good Weekend Talks Sleep expert Matthew Walker on snoring, napping, nightmares and the power of slumber
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Dec 19, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, Matthew Walker, a renowned sleep researcher and author of 'Why We Sleep', shares his accidental journey into the world of sleep science. He dives into the crucial benefits of a good night’s sleep for brain health, cognitive performance, and even athletic prowess. Walker discusses the alarming connection between sleep deprivation and Alzheimer's, the science behind effective napping, and why teenagers need later school start times. He also offers practical tips on sleep hygiene and techniques to combat nighttime anxiety.
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Accidental Path To Sleep Science
- Matthew Walker fell into sleep science while studying brainwaves in dementia patients and discovered sleep measurements at night revealed clearer patterns.
- That accidental pivot led him to pursue sleep research for over two decades and write Why We Sleep.
Sleep Cleanses Alzheimer's Proteins
- Short sleep increases Alzheimer's proteins and sleep deprivation raises amyloid and tau levels in fluid and brain scans.
- Deep sleep powers a brain 'glymphatic' cleanse that removes these toxic proteins overnight.
Test And Treat Snoring And Apnea
- If you snore or your partner reports pauses in breathing, get tested because untreated sleep apnea shortens healthspan and lifespan.
- Try SnoreLab for several nights then consult your doctor for an at-home sleep test and treatment options like CPAP or mandibular devices.
