#89 - Does Catch-up Sleep Work?

The Matt Walker Podcast

Welcome back to a new episode of the Matt Walker Podcast, where we revisit the often-discussed topic of catch-up sleep. We delve into the complexities of weekend catch-up sleep, exploring a recent study of 91,000 participants that suggests a potential link between compensatory weekend sleep and a reduced risk of heart disease. While this news offers a glimmer of hope, it's crucial to understand this benefit within the context of existing research. Studies like that of Dr. Ken Wright at the University of Colorado Boulder show weekend catch-up sleep only recovers a small percentage of sleep debt and doesn’t fully reverse the damage of weekday sleep deprivation on other critical bodily systems. We explore the impact of short sleep and weekend catch-up sleep on circadian rhythms, food consumption, blood sugar regulation, and deep sleep. This nuanced perspective emphasizes the importance of prioritizing consistent, sufficient sleep throughout the entire week for optimal health.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

One of our sponsors this week is the biochemical electrolyte drink company LMNT, and they are very kindly offering eight free sample packs when you purchase any one of their orders at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. LMNT is an electrolyte sports drink that I can get behind - it's created from the basis of science, and it has no sugar, no coloring, and no artificial ingredients – all qualities that are so important to maintaining your blood biochemical balance. If you want to give LMNT a try, just head on over to drinklmnt.com/mattwalker and get your eight free samples with your first purchase.

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As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker or on X @sleepdiplomat