Taking Your Sleep to the Next Level with Dr. Allison Brager
Oct 4, 2023
38:35
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Dr. Allison Brager, neurobiologist and Deputy Chief Science Officer for the U.S. Army, joins WHOOP VP of Performance Science to discuss misconceptions about sleep trends, ideal sleeping conditions, the relationship between light and melatonin, manipulating circadian rhythms, sleep consistency, circadian rhythms and the metabolic system, behaviors that disrupt sleep onset, and the impact of naps on sleep patterns.
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Quick takeaways
Mouth taping during sleep lacks scientific evidence and should not be practiced for promoting diaphragmatic breathing.
Creating a cool, dark, and quiet environment with dim light exposure in the evening optimizes melatonin release and promotes high-quality sleep.
Deep dives
Misconceptions about sleep trends
One misconception discussed in the podcast is the practice of mouth taping during sleep, which aims to promote diaphragmatic breathing but lacks scientific evidence. Another key point is that ideal sleeping conditions involve a cold, dark, and quiet environment. The relationship between light and melatonin is explored, highlighting the importance of dim light exposure in the evening to optimize melatonin release. The discussion also delves into the manipulation and regulation of circadian rhythms and the significance of sleep consistency. Lastly, the positives and negatives of napping are discussed, emphasizing the importance of a short siesta with a duration of 20 to 30 minutes.
Optimal conditions for sleep
The podcast addresses the ideal conditions for good sleep, such as a cool, dark, and quiet environment. It is suggested that a temperature range of 66 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Creating a dim light environment in the lead-up to bed is emphasized as it helps optimize melatonin release and promotes high-quality sleep. Additionally, the use of low glycemic foods before bed is suggested to prevent spikes in blood glucose levels, especially for individuals who experience sleep disruption due to hunger.
Circadian rhythms and sleep manipulation
The importance of sleep-wake consistency for optimizing circadian rhythms is highlighted. The discussion emphasizes the role of routine and external cues in regulating the body's release of melatonin. Manipulating external cues such as light exposure, meal timing, exercise, and caffeine consumption can help align the circadian rhythm and optimize sleep. Advice is given for individuals who experience jet lag, including exposure to bright light at specific times and modifying meal times to align with the new time zone.
Behavioral factors affecting sleep
Several behavioral factors that can impact sleep onset and quality are discussed. It is advised to avoid consuming caffeine, especially within six to eight hours before bedtime, as its half-life affects sleep. High-intensity exercise close to bedtime is cautioned against, as it can delay the body's return to normal core body temperature and cardiovascular system functions. The disruptive effects of alcohol on sleep are explained, including its competition with photoreceptors responsible for circadian responsiveness to light. Lastly, the benefits of creatine supplementation for promoting sleep and neuroprotection are mentioned.
On this week’s episode, WHOOP VP of Performance Science, Principal Scientist, Kristen Holmes is joined by Dr. Allison Brager. She is a neurobiologist with expertise in sleep and circadian rhythms who works to examine the mind and body’s resilience to extreme environmental stress. Kristen and Allison will discuss misconceptions about sleep trends (2:35), ideal sleeping conditions (6:12), the relationship between light and melatonin (10:35), manipulating our circadian rhythm (12:40), sleep consistency (16:55), circadian rhythms and the metabolic system (23:10), behaviors that can disrupt sleep onset (28:42), and how naps impact sleep patterns (35:40).