Optimal Health Uncovered

E1: Sleep and its effect on the body

May 14, 2020 Performance
Optimal Health Uncovered
E1: Sleep and its effect on the body
Show Notes Transcript

In this episode, Todd Wilkowski and Mike Beecher discuss sleep, its importance and how it relates to optimal health.  Phases of sleep, REM cycles, and diseases related to a lack of sleep (Heart Disease, Diabetes, Cancer & Hallucinations).  The optimal number of hours of sleep, naps and napping, data retention and sacrificing sleep, sleep cycles, and sleep related to the immune function is discussed (Cortisol, Melatonin, Human growth hormone (HGH), Prolactin, & T-Cells).  Todd and Mike also review the latest wearable technology (OURA ring, Apple watch, Whoop strap, & Withings Pad).  Parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system, Hacks for better sleep, blue light blocking glasses, circadian rhythm, ideal bedroom temperature, and caffeine and alcohol effects on sleep are also covered. 


  • Definition of sleep (2:20) 
    • COVID-19 Coronavirus effects on sleep 
  • Phases of sleep (3:10)
  • REM Sleep Cycle (3:20)
  • Importance of Sleep (5:30)
  • Lack of sleep and its effect on the body (6:15) 
    • Heart Disease 
    • Diabetes 
    • Cancer 
    • Hallucinations 
  • 8 hours of sleep is ideal (7:40)
  • Naps and does it help sleep? (8:25)
  • Study and data retention (10:10)
  • Sleep in toddlers, kids and teenagers (11:15)
  • Sleep Cycles (12:30) 
    • 15-25% REM sleep is optimal 
  • Immune system and function (13:20) 
    • Cortisol 
    • Human growth hormone (HGH) 
    • Prolactin 
    • T-Cells 
    • Coronary artery disease 
    • Tolerance of glucose/insulin 
  • Wearable technology and tracking sleep patterns (15:40) 
    • OURA Ring (HRV score or heart rate variability) 
    • Apple Watch 
    • Whoop Strap 
    • Withings Pad 
  • Parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system (20:10)
  • Hacks for better sleep (20:32) 
    • Caffeine and alcohol effects on sleep (night cap) 
    • Blue light glasses 
    • Melatonin 
    • Effects of television, ipads, phones, and tablets on sleep 
    • No exercise or eating late 
    • Deep breathing (4, 7, 8 technique) Dr. Andrew Wild 
  • Sleep schedule (26:00)
  • Circadian Rhythm (26:25)
  • Ideal Temperature of bedroom (26:40)
  • Core temperature before bed (27:15)