#95 - Circadian Rhythms, Travel, and Athlete Optimization with Dr. Cheri Mah

Dr. Cheri Mah returns to the podcast today to explore a few different topics including how circadian rhythms shape athletic performance. She notes that these 24-hour cycles regulate sleep, hormones, and core temperature, with peak physical capacity often occurring between 4-8 pm—when many world records are set. Dr. Mah also discusses chronotypes, showing how tailoring training to one’s natural rhythm can enhance results. She reveals research on circadian disruption in sports, notably how West Coast NFL teams outperform East Coast teams in night games due to a three-hour body clock advantage. The episode also covers jet lag strategies, sleep loading, and managing fatigue, making it a must-listen not just for athletes and high performers, but truly for us all. 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. Matt is only too happy to share the fact that launching his sleep-related merchandise sales was incredibly smooth, thanks to show sponsor Shopify and their integrated sales and inventory system. And now, just for you, Shopify is generously offering an exclusive trial at shopify.com/mattwalker. Whether it's online or in-person sales, Shopify simplifies it all. So, be sure to stop in at shopify.com/mattwalker to start your exclusive journey now! 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. Another great sponsor of the show is AG1, a comprehensive nutritional drink trusted by thousands worldwide, including Matt! For nearly four years and counting, he has relied on AG1 to fuel his post-workout routine with its powerhouse blend of over 75 essential minerals, vitamins, probiotics, and prebiotics, meticulously crafted to support your daily nutritional needs. AG1 is registered and approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, boasting GMP badges for quality assurance. As a special offer for our listeners, when you try AG1, you'll receive a complimentary one-year supply of both Vitamin D and K2, and with your first subscription, you'll also receive five free AG1 travel packs! Visit AG1 to explore AG1's range of offerings and claim your exclusive offer. Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker or on X @sleepdiplomat YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299 Connect with Dr. Mah: https://www.drcherimah.com/ or https://linktr.ee/drcherimah Caffeine Nap Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/58-caffeine-nap/id1578319619?i=1000630666364 Chronotype Assessment: AutoMEQ: Automated Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (AutoMEQ)