73: Is Sleep the Missing Vital Sign? – How Poor Sleep Wrecks Hormones, Brain Health & Longevity with Dr. Christian Jenski

What if the real secret to better hormones, metabolism, and long-term health isn’t a supplement or diet—but simply getting enough sleep?

In this episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman sits down with Dr. Christian Jenski to explore one of the most overlooked foundations of health and longevity: sleep.

Drawing from personal and clinical experiences, they discuss the far-reaching impacts of sleep deprivation and underdiagnosed sleep disorders—like sleep apnea—on everything from hormonal balance and metabolism to mood, immunity, and chronic disease risk. Together, they highlight why sleep is more than “rest”—it is a biological necessity intricately tied to nutrition, hormones, and long-term well-being.

Listeners will gain insights into why consistent sleep routines and proper diagnosis matter, why sleep disorders are often missed across diverse populations, and what simple steps can begin shifting sleep quality today. The episode wraps with a powerful call to action: prioritize sleep as a non-negotiable pillar of health.

✅ Show Highlights:

• Why sleep is often the “missing link” in functional and conventional medicine
• Personal stories of sleep deprivation and its impact on health and practice
• The connection between sleep apnea, cardiovascular health, and chronic illness
• How poor sleep disrupts hormones, blood sugar regulation, and brain health
• Underdiagnosed sleep disorders across populations and why awareness matters
• The importance of consistent bedtime routines and circadian rhythm alignment
• Sneak peek: upcoming practical strategies to improve sleep quality

💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• Why sleep deprivation is a major driver of chronic disease
• The hidden prevalence of sleep apnea and its health risks
• How disrupted sleep undermines hormonal balance and mental health
• Why sleep must be considered alongside nutrition and stress in patient care
• Actionable steps to start protecting and improving your sleep

🌐 Resources & Links:

• Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.com
• YouTube – Aaron Hartman, MD: @AaronHartmanMD