AWAKE: The Sleep Health Podcast

How does exposure to natural light in nature impact our sleep patterns and overall well-being? In this episode, Martin Moore-Ede, the Director of the Circadian Light Research Center, sheds light on the profound effects of natural and artificial light on our sleep patterns and well-being. Martin explores the impact of blue light, the benefits of controlled light exposure, and the connection between disrupted circadian rhythms, sleep apnea, and various health conditions. He discusses how greenery and natural environments can profoundly impact our mental state and health and how spending time surrounded by nature can lead to improved well-being compared to bustling city settings. Martin highlights the concerns about the negative impact of blue light, especially from electronic devices, on our health and sleep.  Stay tuned to discover how understanding and optimizing our relationship with light can improve sleep and overall health. Support the show

Raising awareness about the importance of sleep and how to achieve it is essential for everyone’s well-being. In this episode, Stacey Simon shares her invaluable insights on the importance of healthy sleep for children and adolescents, their challenges, and effective interventions that can make a difference. Stacey uncovers the transformative power of quality sleep and explores practical strategies for improving sleep health in our younger generations.  Get ready for an eye-opening discussion that can benefit the whole family! Support the show

Technology is reshaping the landscape of sleep health, offering new ways to monitor and improve sleep quality. In this episode, Brandon Ballinger, co-founder of Empirical Health, shares his journey from software engineer to healthcare innovator. Brandon discusses his involvement in developing technology to detect abnormal heart rhythms using devices like the Apple Watch and the significance of this technology in uncovering links between heart health and sleep disorders like sleep apnea. He highlights the need for patients to advocate for themselves in healthcare and the potential for technology to empower individuals to take control of their health. Finally, Brandon shares insights from his apps, Empirical Health and Empirical Sleep, which utilize sensor data to monitor heart health and sleep quality.  Tune in and learn why the future of healthcare may involve a collaborative model where patients, AI assistants, and healthcare providers work together to optimize health outcomes! Support the show

There is a complex relationship between interrupted sleep, coffee, and the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib). In this episode, Dr. Greg Marcus discusses his studies on the relationship between sleep and various health issues, particularly sleep apnea and atrial fibrillation (AFib). Greg shares insights from his research on caffeine's impact on sleep, revealing that coffee consumption, especially for slow caffeine metabolizers, can significantly affect sleep duration. Dr. Marcus also delves into the connection between interrupted sleep and AFib, highlighting the importance of addressing sleep quality for individuals with heart rhythm disorders. He emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to routinely inquire about sleep habits, especially in AFib patients, despite the lack of strong evidence linking sleep apnea treatment to AFib prevention.  Tune in and learn how advancements in sleep research and digital health technologies shape our understanding of sleep disorders and their impact on overall health! Support the show