#116 - 40 Hz Brain Stimulation

24 snips

Nov 24, 2025

Dive into the fascinating world of 40 Hz gamma rhythms, known for their role in high-order cognition. Discover how non-invasive light and sound can synchronize brain activity and potentially aid Alzheimer’s patients by encouraging immune cells to clear toxic plaques. Unpack the paradox of 40 Hz stimulation that can surprisingly promote sleepiness while improving mood and insomnia. With promising yet preliminary results, this exploration hints at a future where brain entrainment could revolutionize our approach to cognitive health.

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INSIGHT

Gamma Is The Brain's Conductor

Gamma at 40 Hz acts like a conductor, synchronizing brain regions during high-order cognition.
External 40 Hz light or sound can entrain neurons, effectively giving the brain a metronome to boost gamma activity.

INSIGHT

40 Hz Shows Promise Against Alzheimer's

In mice, 40 Hz light reduced amyloid plaques and rallied microglia to clear toxic protein.
Human pilot trials showed stabilized brain volumes and preserved hippocampal size after daily 40 Hz stimulation.

ANECDOTE

Human Pilot Trial With Daily 40 Hz Sessions

A 2022 pilot trial gave early Alzheimer's patients one hour daily of 40 Hz light and sound for three months.
Treated patients avoided expected hippocampal atrophy and improved face-name memory versus controls.

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Matt ventures into the realm of 40 Hz "gamma" rhythms - the conductor of the biological orchestra during high-order cognition - to explore how non-invasive light and sound stimulation can entrain brain activity, nudging neurons into synchrony. Crucially, Matt examines ground-breaking Alzheimer’s research where this rhythm rallies the brain's immune cells to clear toxic plaques, potentially stabilizing memory and preventing atrophy in early-stage patients.

Beyond cognition, Matt uncovers a neurobiological paradox: high-frequency stimulation can actually induce sleepiness by triggering a surge in adenosine. He discusses findings suggesting 40 Hz therapy acts as a "paradoxical lullaby," improving insomnia and regulating mood via the prefrontal cortex. While remaining grounded in scientific skepticism, Matt considers if this non-pharmacological intervention could become a vital addition to our future health toolkit.

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.

This episode is supported by podcast partner Pique. Their Radiant Skin Duo pairs Sun Goddess Matcha and B·T Fountain to target stress and deep cellular hydration from the inside out. Get 20% off sitewide for life plus an exclusive free holiday bundle at piquelife.com/mattwalker.

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Another sponsor is UPLIFT Desk whose V3 Standing Desk helps boost circulation and concentration with a sturdy, customizable design that gets you moving while you work. Visit upliftdesk.com/mattwalker and use code MATTWALKER for 4 free accessories and a 15-year warranty.

As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt:

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat,

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg