Flex Diet Podcast Episode 310: Unpacking the Science of Sleep with Dr. Allison Brager
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Feb 25, 2025 In this discussion, Dr. Allison Brager, a PhD neuroscientist, CrossFit athlete, and military sleep expert, reveals the intricacies of sleep science. She addresses the importance of sleep phases and individual chronotypes in athletic performance. Dr. Brager critiques common sleep advice, sharing insights on effective sleep supplements and strategies for optimizing recovery. Additionally, she explores the unique sleep challenges faced by military personnel and athletes, emphasizing how travel and training schedules can impact overall rest and performance.
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Chronotypes and Sleep
- Sleep amounts and quality depend on a genetically predetermined sleep set point.
- Sleep timing, however, is more flexible and differs based on individual chronotypes and external factors.
Identifying Chronotype
- Determine your chronotype using the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire.
- This self-assessment helps identify your natural sleep tendencies.
Early Workouts
- Dr. Brager had to wake up at 4 a.m. for workouts due to her brigade commander's schedule.
- She felt fatigued and sick more often, highlighting the importance of aligning with one's chronotype.