Huberman Lab cover image

Use Sleep to Enhance Learning, Memory & Emotional State | Dr. Gina Poe

Huberman Lab

00:00

The Importance of the First Sleep Cycle for Growth Hormone Release and Protein Synthesis

The first sleep cycle is crucial for growth hormone release and protein synthesis. During this deep, slow-wave sleep, a significant amount of growth hormone is released, benefiting both men and women. Missing this initial sleep period means missing out on the large amount of growth hormone release. Although overall growth hormone release may still occur later, the big bolus of growth hormone released in the first cycle has different effects. Additionally, protein synthesis, which is important for memory consolidation, occurs in the first cycle of sleep. Therefore, it is essential not to miss the initial 90 minutes of sleep. Our body has an internal clock that knows when these processes should happen, and if we miss the first sleep cycle, our cells may not respond as effectively to growth hormone release, as their clocks have already moved to the next phase.

Play episode from 19:12
Transcript

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
 Get the app