Ask Me Anything Part 17: Tracker Accuracy, 3 AM Wake ups, Sleep Onset & More

In this latest AMA episode, Matt and Dr. Eti Ben Simon tackle even more listener questions regarding any and all aspects of sleep. Today, they discuss sleep tracker accuracy, noting that while nightly data isn't perfect (~75-85% accurate), weekly trends are reliable. Feeling exhausted despite good tracker metrics? Potential causes include fragmented sleep, circadian issues, undiagnosed disorders (like apnea), or tracker-induced anxiety (orthosomnia). Matt and Eti stress consulting a specialist for persistent fatigue and focusing on long-term data patterns. They also explore why many wake around 3:30 AM, linking it to shifts into lighter sleep stages and hormonal changes (cortisol rise, melatonin drop). The hosts explain alpha wave intrusion's link to nonrestorative sleep, theories behind teeth-falling-out dreams (trigeminal nerve activity), and differing sleep onset times (partner variations, potential sleep debt). They also touch upon how antidepressants affect dream recall via REM sleep reduction and debunk precognitive dreams, attributing them to statistics and cognitive bias, not prophecy. 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 will be the first to tell you that launching his sleep-related merchandise sales was incredibly smooth, thanks to our new 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! 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. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti: 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