Founder & CEO of Elevated Medical, Dr. Avinish Reddy, joins Matt today on this very special episode to discuss a comprehensive approach to longevity. One core theme presented is the profound interconnectedness of physical, mental, and cognitive well-being, essential for true health optimization. Dr. Reddy emphasizes the striking impact of social connection: isolation can increase early death risk by 50%, comparable to smoking. He believes fostering strong social bonds is a fundamental pillar of healthcare, akin to sleep's importance.

The discussion highlights advanced diagnostics and actionable lifestyle strategies. Dr. Reddy advocates for precise cardiovascular risk assessment (apoB) and early metabolic dysfunction detection (fasting insulin/OGTT), with imaging (CT/CIMT) that visualizes arterial health proactively. As you will hear, prevention must begin decades before major health events, utilizing personalized data, and lifestyle is paramount - consistent movement, balanced nutrition, quality sleep, and stress management are vital for reversing conditions and fostering resilience.

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.

As a huge supporter of mission-driven companies, Matt recommends new partner Branch Basics. Their plant- and mineral-based ‘The Concentrate’ is tough on kitchen grease yet gentle enough for baby toys, helping you create a toxin-free home. Get 15% off with code MattWalker at branchbasics.com/mattwalker.

Craving more energy, better metabolism, and immunity? Discover Pique's Nandaka, a ceremonial cacao superfood blend for calm, sustained energy without the crash. Thanks to this wonderful podcast partner, you can now get 20% off for life at pique.com/mattwalker using code MattWalker.

In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast supporter Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker.

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

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat,

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

Connect with Dr. Avinish Reddy:

Elevated Medical: https://elevatedmedical.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avinishreddy/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avinishreddymd/

In this latest AMA instalment, Matt and Dr. Eti Ben Simon begin by discussing environmental influences on sleep. The conversation covers how high latitude and prolonged daylight disrupt circadian rhythms, with Eti sharing her own personal experience. Together, our duo shares strategies for managing light exposure and regulating core body temperature with methods like warm baths. The episode also offers evidence-based approaches for shift workers, including strategic napping and forward-rotating schedules.

The discussion then shifts to internal mechanisms, debunking the "sleep before midnight" myth and emphasizing alignment with one's chronotype. The role of the thalamus as a sensory gate for blocking pain during sleep is detailed, with Eti noting that meaningful stimuli can still break through this barrier. Finally, the use of Gabapentin is examined, outlining its limited efficacy for primary insomnia versus conditions like restless legs syndrome.

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.

Partner of the podcast, AG1, is one sponsor that Matt relies upon for his foundational nutrition. Their new science-backed Next Gen formula features upgraded probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. Start your subscription today to get a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 free travel packs with your first order at drinkag1.com/mattwalker.

Another of this week's sponsors, David, is a revolutionary new protein bar developed with Dr. Peter Attia. It boasts an unbeatable ratio: 28g of protein and 0g of sugar in just 150 calories. Incredibly satiating with six amazing flavors, it’s perfect for muscle health. Buy yours today at davidprotein.com/mattwalker and buy 4 cartons to get a 5th FREE! If they’re not already sold out, you can also find them at a local store using the store locator—or on Amazon.

Our third sponsor this week, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts!

As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out:

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat,

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/, or email at etoosh@gmail.com

Matt explores the critical link between sleep and Alzheimer's disease today, explaining how the brain’s "glymphatic system" clears toxic proteins like amyloid and tau during deep sleep. He describes how insufficient sleep impairs this process, creating a vicious cycle where protein accumulation damages sleep-generating brain regions and increases dementia risk.

Matt goes on to discuss groundbreaking research on a new class of sleeping pills, Dual Orexin Receptor Antagonists (DORAs), that may enhance this cleaning mechanism. While preliminary human and animal studies show these drugs can reduce toxic proteins and offer neuroprotection, the findings underscore the profound importance of prioritizing high-quality sleep as a powerful, accessible tool for ensuring long-term brain 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 this week's sponsors, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts!

Another sponsor, Shopify, made launching Matt's merchandise incredibly smooth with its integrated sales system. Shopify simplifies everything from online stores to in-person sales. Start your exclusive trial and see for yourself at shopify.com/mattwalker.

In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast partner Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker.

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

Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat,

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg