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.comDr. 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 Sleep01:33 Top Sleep Supplements02:11 Sponsors and Personal Updates02:56 Conversation with Dr. Allison Braeger03:32 Teaching at West Point04:41 Chronotypes and Sleep Advice09:40 Training and Sleep Optimization13:48 Impact of Travel on Athletes26:09 Wearables and Sleep Research33:22 Intense Competition Experience34:27 Lab Testing Mishaps35:03 Competitive Nature in Athletes36:09 Debating Sleep Stages39:22 Heart Rate Variability and Sleep47:00 Challenges in Sleep Research49:38 Frustrations in Academia55:50 Alternative Research Paths56:26 Where to Find More InformationFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 273: Unlocking Better Sleep: Insights and Strategies from Dr. Chris PerryEpisode 283: Unlocking Better Sleep and Stress Reduction with Dr. Dan Cohen of Soltec HealthConnect with Dr Brager: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/docjockzzz/"Meathead Unraveling the Athletic Brain": https://www.amazon.com/Meathead-Unraveling-Athletic-Allison-BragerGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/ Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter