Ep. 18 - Optimizing Your Sleep, CBD, herbs, blue light glasses with Alexander Chriest
Nov 12, 2020
auto_awesome
Alexander Chriest, a sleep optimization expert, joins Erin Kenny to discuss the importance of sleep for overall health, consequences of sleep deprivation, and ways to improve sleep. They explore the impact of caffeine, hormonal imbalance, and gut health on sleep quality and emotional regulation. They also highlight the relationship between sleep and immune function. The podcast touches on societal pressure to constantly perform and the need for rest, as well as the significance of a consistent bedtime routine for better sleep.
Addressing root causes is important for improving sleep, including gut health and hormonal imbalances.
Creating a conducive sleeping environment with optimal temperature, darkness, and quietness is crucial for better sleep.
Improving gut health can positively impact sleep by regulating neurotransmitters and preventing immune system dysregulation.
Deep dives
The importance of sleep and its impact on overall health
Sleep is important for many reasons, including overall health and gut health. Mental health issues and the COVID-19 pandemic have negatively affected people's sleep. The podcast explores factors that can negatively impact sleep, such as stress, hormonal imbalances, and an unhealthy gut. It also discusses the potential benefits of therapy and probiotics in improving sleep quality.
Environmental and lifestyle factors that influence sleep
The podcast highlights the importance of maintaining a conducive sleeping environment. The ideal sleeping temperature is around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The room should be dark, free from light sources, and quiet to avoid disruptions. It emphasizes the negative impact of using electronic devices before bed and suggests limiting caffeine intake, especially in the afternoon.
Tools and strategies to improve sleep
The podcast explores various tools and strategies that can help improve sleep. It mentions blue light blocking glasses, Valerian root, lemon balm tea, CBD oil, and melatonin as potential aids. However, it also emphasizes the need to address the root causes of sleep issues, such as gut health, hormonal imbalances, and overall lifestyle factors. Establishing a consistent sleep routine is also highlighted as an effective approach.
The Impact of Gut Health on Sleep
Having an unhealthy gut significantly affects sleep as neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin are connected to gut health. Eating a big meal close to bed can disrupt the relaxation and digestion process during sleep. Rejuvenation is hampered by high-fat, high-fiber, and high-carbohydrate meals before sleep. Poor gut health can lead to emotional dysregulation due to sleep deprivation, as well as increased hunger levels due to elevated ghrelin, leading to weight gain and obesity risk.
The Link Between Sleep and Immune System
Sleep deprivation increases production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, impairing immune function. Insufficient sleep reduces antibody production, making flu vaccines less effective. Lack of sleep also increases susceptibility to the common cold and pneumonia. Sleep plays a crucial role in restoring the immune system and protecting against sickness. Prioritizing good quality sleep can contribute to a robust immune system and overall health.
In todays episode we discuss:
- Why sleep is important for overall health
- Consequences of not getting enough sleep
- Ways to improve sleep
Work with Erin:
email: erin@nutritionrewired.com
website: nutritionrewired.com
IG: Nutritionrewired
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode