The Sleep Mistakes Keeping Women Tired, Anxious and Ageing Faster

Sleep is the foundation of every other health intervention, yet it's often the first thing we sacrifice. In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast, Azra sits down with sleep researcher Dr Jemma King, author of Sleep First, to explore why women are significantly more likely to experience poor sleep, how disrupted sleep accelerates ageing, and the practical changes that can dramatically improve your health.

Dr King explains why sleep isn't simply about getting enough hours. It's about getting the right type of sleep at the right time. From the critical deep sleep that repairs your body and cleans your brain to REM sleep that regulates emotions and fear, this conversation unpacks the science behind why sleep influences almost every aspect of physical and mental health.

They also discuss why women are particularly vulnerable to sleep disruption through hormonal changes, stress and the invisible mental load many carry, and why so many women wake feeling exhausted despite spending enough time in bed.

If you've ever wondered whether your wearable is helping or harming, whether melatonin is worth taking, why alcohol wrecks your sleep, or whether you can ever catch up on lost sleep, this episode has the answers.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Why sleep is the most powerful biohack for long-term health and longevity
• Why women experience significantly more sleep disturbances than men
• The connection between sleep, hormones, anxiety and menopause
• What actually happens during deep sleep and REM sleep
• Why the two hours before midnight are so important for brain repair
• The science behind your brain's nightly "cleaning cycle"
• Why poor sleep affects mood, memory, decision-making and relationships
• How sleep deprivation changes the way other people perceive you
• Why waking tired despite eight hours in bed isn't normal
• The surprising link between poor sleep and dementia risk
• Why sleep apnoea is often overlooked in women
• How alcohol, caffeine and sugar sabotage sleep quality
• The truth about sleep trackers and when they become counterproductive
• What supplements actually have evidence behind them—and which don't
• The risks of using melatonin incorrectly
• Whether blue light glasses really work
• The impact of phones, social media and late-night news on sleep
• The ideal bedroom temperature for restorative sleep
• Why consistency matters more than sleeping in on weekends
• Whether you can really "catch up" on lost sleep

CONNECT WITH DR JEMMA KING

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.jemma.king/

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jemma-king-phd-76013328/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BiopsychAcademy

Website: https://jemmakingbio-pa.com.au/

Buy her book: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/jRW90M

PREORDER MY NEW BOOK!

Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life.

Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher

Website: www.biohack-her.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

LIVE WELL LONGER RETREAT

Join us at the Live Well Longer Retreat from 16–20 October 2026 at the award-winning Eden Retreat in the breathtaking Gold Coast hinterland. Over five immersive days, you'll discover evidence-based biohacking and longevity strategies to optimise your health through expert-led masterclasses, movement, nourishing wholefoods, restorative wellness experiences and practical tools you can continue using long after you return home. Hosted by Australia's leading biohackers, Azra Alagic and Camilla Thompson, this retreat is designed to help you reset, recharge and live well for longer. Learn more and book your place at eden.com.au/live-well-longer