Chapter
The importance of light on human behavior
1:00:21 - 1:06:45 (06:24)
The circadian rhythm and the homeostatic drive respond to the light-dark cycle which affects sleep and eventually determines one's behavior. Light stimulates certain brain regions, and exposure to it during the day can help regulate sleep patterns and mood.
Clips
The prefrontal cortex receives input from ancient photoreceptors and adjusts the circadian clock for mood regulation.
1:00:21 - 1:02:17 (01:55)
Summary
The prefrontal cortex receives input from ancient photoreceptors and adjusts the circadian clock for mood regulation. Light can control executive function, learning, stress, and mood, and could potentially be used to develop daily protocols for improvement.
ChapterThe importance of light on human behavior
EpisodeDr. Samer Hattar: Timing Your Light, Food, & Exercise for Optimal Sleep, Energy & Mood
PodcastHuberman Lab
Light affects both the homeostatic and circadian systems in the brain, leading to an increase in brain activity and ultimately influencing sleep quality.
1:02:17 - 1:04:17 (02:00)
Summary
Light affects both the homeostatic and circadian systems in the brain, leading to an increase in brain activity and ultimately influencing sleep quality. Even with a well-regulated sleep drive, exposure to light at the wrong time of day or mental stress can still negatively affect sleep.
ChapterThe importance of light on human behavior
EpisodeDr. Samer Hattar: Timing Your Light, Food, & Exercise for Optimal Sleep, Energy & Mood
PodcastHuberman Lab
In addition to setting our circadian clock, getting as much bright light during the day as safely possible can improve our mood independently of regulating our sleep-wake cycle.
1:04:17 - 1:06:45 (02:28)
Summary
In addition to setting our circadian clock, getting as much bright light during the day as safely possible can improve our mood independently of regulating our sleep-wake cycle. This third input is controlled by different brain regions than the SCN or arcuate and is dependent on food availability.