Optimize & Control Your Brain Chemistry to Improve Health & Performance | Episode 80
Main Takeaways
Different states of sleep (REM vs deep sleep) relate to different aspects of metabolism, regulating over 50% of metabolite features detected in human breath.
Major metabolic pathways are up-regulated or down-regulated as we transition between sleep stages, and this assists in supporting metabolism during wakefulness.
Sleep regulates individual metabolic pathways; the transition to slow wave sleep increases fatty acid oxidation, while the transition out of REM kicks off a tricarboxylic acid cycle.
Getting enough sleep allows the body to transition through all the different forms of metabolism and use metabolites properly for the brain and body.
A new study showed that "night owls" who shift their sleep schedules to wake up earlier and keep a regular sleep schedule report improved mood, less depression, lower stress, improved reaction times, and improved grip strength.
Neuromodulators are chemicals that make it more likely certain substances will be active or inhibited; dopamine, epinephrine, serotonin, and acetylcholine are the four main neuromodulators.
Neuromodulators can be fast-acting or slow-acting, and their activity depends on hormones and neural circuits.
Phases of the day and neuromodulators most present can be leveraged to help us achieve specific goals and productivity.
Testosterone and dopamine are related, and cortisol and epinephrine are related; oxytocin or prolactin are related to serotonin.
Dopamine increases mental and physical motivation, drive, and focus, while epinephrine generates energy and activates our immune system. Serotonin creates states of content, satiety, relaxation, soothing, and relief from pain.
