Time restricted eating can have many health benefits, but it doesn't seem to have any positive effects on sleep according to three studies conducted on animals. Deficiency in wake-promoting chemical, arexin, can lead to narcolepsy which causes an unpredictable sleep schedule.
This podcast discusses the benefits of time restricted eating and the limited data available on long-term fasting. While time restricted eating did not have any significant effect on sleep, fasting has yet to be extensively studied.
Arexin, a wake-promoting chemical, is crucial for maintaining regular sleep patterns, and its deficiency can lead to conditions like narcolepsy. Starvation can also lead to insufficient sleep, with testosterone release peaks just before entering REM sleep and during it, as a brain response to stay awake for longer in the absence of food sources.
Fasting can induce hormesis, a biological process that creates a stronger body and mind, which manifests in greater focus and performance. The discomfort experienced is similar to exercise or sauna, which can improve resilience and increase lifespan.