#79 - Melatonin, Autism Spectrum Disorder, & Sleep

The Matt Walker Podcast

This week, Matt shines his spotlight on the intriguing topic of melatonin use for individuals living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While melatonin has been discussed in previous episodes in relation to sleep enhancement and antioxidant properties, today's focus is on a recent meta-analysis that examines its effectiveness in treating sleep disorders specifically in those with ASD. This deep dive is prompted by new data and the pervasive sleep challenges faced by individuals with autism, making it a timely and important discussion.

Matt explores the nuanced mechanisms and varied sleep problems associated with ASD, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment plans. The episode highlights how melatonin can potentially aid in increasing total sleep time and improving sleep onset latency, though it shows variable results in sleep efficiency. Listeners are reminded that while melatonin offers promising possibilities, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution and must be considered carefully, particularly in terms of dosage and individual conditions. Additionally, the discussion includes potential adverse effects and the importance of medical supervision when using melatonin as a treatment for children with ASD.

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.

Support for today’s podcast also comes from Magic Spoon. I’ve always loved cereal, but focusing on wellness meant giving it up due to unhealthy ingredients. Enter Magic Spoon, introduced to me by Dr. Peter Attia. Their high-protein, low-sugar cereals transformed my mornings, and now, they've added Magic Spoon Treats, packed with 11g of protein, 1g of sugar, and only 4 net carbs in flavors including chocolate, peanut butter, and strawberry milkshake. And thanks to their generosity, you can now take advantage of a special offer: Get $5 off at magicspoon.com/mattwalker. Enjoy!

The good people at InsideTracker are one of the sponsors of this week's episode, and they are generously offering a special 25% off any one of their programs for anyone who uses the above link during the time window of this episode. InsideTracker is a personalized biometric platform that analyzes your blood and your DNA to better understand what's happening inside of you and offers suggestions regarding things that you can do to better try and adjust some of those numbers, optimize them, and, as a result, optimize you.

Another sponsor 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.

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