“In this Aliquot, clinical psychologist Dr. Ashley Mason and sleep expert Dr. Matt Walker describe some of the behaviors that can make getting a good night's sleep difficult – and how cognitive behavioral therapy and meditation can provide help.”
“Regulating the amount of light in our environment is crucial for a good night's sleep and a good mood the next day. Habits such as using blue light-emitting electronics close to bedtime can reduce melatonin production by as much as 20 percent, impairing sleep.”
“Since then, the body of research enumerating the profound anti-inflammatory and generalized health-promoting qualities of omega-3s continues to grow; however, some studies fail to show any effects from omega-3 supplementation.”
“In this Aliquot, we share a variety of segments from different interviews covering some of the unconventional effects of omega-3 fatty acids and how to overcome some of the roadblocks to obtaining these effects.”
“Although alcohol may help us feel calm and ready to sleep, it has surprising effects on REM sleep and maybe our waking behaviors too. In this Aliquot, Dr. Matthew Walker, Tim Ferriss, and I discuss some of the risks and surprising effects of alcohol on human health and behavior.”
“Roughly one-quarter of people living in the US carry a genetic variant of the apolipoprotein E gene, called APOE4, the most important genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Many lifestyle behaviors can mitigate risk, especially sleep hygiene, which provides an opportunity to rid the brain of toxic metabolic byproducts that can contribute to Alzheimer's disease risk.”
“Consuming chocolate and cocoa may carry some risks, however, due to their cadmium content and possible effects on the fetus during pregnancy. In this Aliquot, I describe some of the research on the benefits and risks of consuming cocoa and chocolate, as foods or supplements.”
“Choline is particularly important during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but some evidence suggests that choline supplementation could carry some risks. In this Aliquot, I talk about the science surrounding choline.”
“Consuming sufficient protein is essential for muscle growth and maintenance. Emphasis on specific amino acids within protein, particularly the branched-chain amino acids, probably isn't necessary unless you're an elite athlete or an older adult.”
“Meditation is a form of mental training geared toward improving aspects of a person's core neurocognitive function, such as the regulation of attention and emotion. Research suggests that meditation may protect the brain from the negative effects of stress and promote mental health.”