Episode 310: Unpacking the Science of Sleep with Dr. Allison Brager

Welcome back to the FlexDiet Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Allison Brager, a PhD neuroscientist, CrossFit athlete, and military sleep expert, to unpack everything you need to know about the science of sleep.

We dive deep into the phases of sleep, circadian rhythms, and chronotypes, plus we take a critical look at popular sleep advice—what’s backed by science and what’s just noise? Dr. Brager also shares fascinating insights on sleep in the military, how to optimize recovery for athletes, and the biochemistry behind quality sleep.

Looking for practical strategies and the best sleep supplements to improve your rest? We’ve got you covered.

Sponsors:

• Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%
• LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.com
• Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.

Flex 4: 

• Check out Dr. Brager's top recommendations for sleep supplements: https://miketnelson.com/flex4/

Triphasic 2 book now available!

• Go to https://triphasic2.com/

Episode Chapters:

• 00:51 Deep Dive into Sleep
• 01:33 Top Sleep Supplements
• 02:11 Sponsors and Personal Updates
• 02:56 Conversation with Dr. Allison Braeger
• 03:32 Teaching at West Point
• 04:41 Chronotypes and Sleep Advice
• 09:40 Training and Sleep Optimization
• 13:48 Impact of Travel on Athletes
• 26:09 Wearables and Sleep Research
• 33:22 Intense Competition Experience
• 34:27 Lab Testing Mishaps
• 35:03 Competitive Nature in Athletes
• 36:09 Debating Sleep Stages
• 39:22 Heart Rate Variability and Sleep
• 47:00 Challenges in Sleep Research
• 49:38 Frustrations in Academia
• 55:50 Alternative Research Paths
• 56:26 Where to Find More Information

Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 273: Unlocking Better Sleep: Insights and Strategies from Dr. Chris Perry
• Episode 283: Unlocking Better Sleep and Stress Reduction with Dr. Dan Cohen of Soltec Health

Connect with Dr Brager: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/docjockzzz/
• "Meathead Unraveling the Athletic Brain": https://www.amazon.com/Meathead-Unraveling-Athletic-Allison-Brager

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
• Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter