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In this “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) episode, Peter answers a number of questions on optimizing sleep. He describes his pre-bedtime routine, how he utilizes a sauna, and his current regimen of medicines and supplements for improving sleep time and quality. He goes in depth on each of the molecules that have shown promise in boosting sleep, including their mechanisms of action as well as any noteworthy contraindications. Peter also discusses sleep wearables, including both the positives and potential negatives of using such trackers, and much more.

If you’re not a subscriber and are listening on a podcast player, you’ll only be able to hear a preview of the AMA. If you’re a subscriber, you can now listen to this full episode on your private RSS feed or on our website at the AMA #42 show notes page. If you are not a subscriber, you can learn more about the subscriber benefits here.

We discuss:

• Peter’s current pre-bedtime routine [3:30];
• Sauna: Peter’s routine, sleep benefits, and tradeoffs [10:45];
• Importance of keeping an open mind as new information arrives [16:15];
• Importance of reducing stimulation leading up to bedtime [19:30];
• Medications that can enhance sleep: mechanisms of action, contraindications, risks, and Peter’s regimen [20:30];
• Why medications can enhance sleep, but should not replace good sleep habits [34:45];
• Sleep supplements: mechanisms of action, contraindications, and Peter’s regimen [37:30];
• Temperature during sleep, cooling devices, mattresses, and more [53:00];
• A tip to help avoid straining your back in the morning [59:15];
• Contrasting polysomnography with wearable sleep trackers [1:00:45];
• Sleep tracking wearables: interpreting metrics, and the pros and cons of trackers [1:04:30];
• Final takeaways on sleep [1:16:30]; and
• More.

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