7 Pillars of Health: Why You’re Tired All Day (It’s Not What You Think) | Dr. Don Colbert, MD Ep. 4
Dr. Colbert’s Broadcast • 7 Pillars of Health
7 Pillars of Health: Why You’re Tired All Day (It’s Not What You Think) | Dr. Don Colbert, MD Ep. 4
In Episode 4 of 7 Pillars of Health, Dr. Don Colbert, MD, Mary Colbert, and Kyle Colbert reveal the critical role of sleep and why poor sleep may be the hidden reason you feel tired all day. They explain the shocking “Monday morning heart attack phenomenon,” the importance of 7–9 hours of quality sleep, how sleep regulates appetite hormones (ghrelin & leptin), boosts growth hormone for tissue repair, strengthens immunity, and supports emotional health.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. If you are experiencing chronic fatigue, sleep disorders, heart concerns, or ongoing health issues, consult a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary.
Episode overview
Dr. Colbert explains how lack of quality sleep quietly sabotages your energy, mood, immunity, and long-term health. The episode covers the surprising connection between poor sleep and increased risk of heart attacks (especially Monday mornings), how sleep resets appetite hormones, promotes deep tissue repair through growth hormone, and strengthens your immune system.
You’ll also learn why most people are getting it wrong — and practical, faith-based steps to finally get the restorative sleep your body needs.
The Monday morning heart attack phenomenon
More heart attacks occur on Monday mornings around 8 a.m. than any other time. Dr. Colbert breaks down why: cortisol, noradrenaline, and epinephrine spike naturally in the morning, many people add coffee, blood pressure rises, clotting risk increases, and inflammation surges — creating the perfect storm for cardiovascular events.
Simple morning tip from Dr. Colbert: Start your day with water instead of loading up on coffee right away.
Why 7–9 hours of sleep is critical
Adults need 7–9 hours of good, oxygenated sleep. Too little or too much sleep increases risks of high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Quality sleep improves memory consolidation, learning, alertness, attention span, and helps prevent stress, anxiety, and depression.
Ghrelin, leptin & appetite control
Sleep helps balance appetite hormones. Ghrelin (the “hunger hormone”) rises when you’re sleep-deprived, triggering late-night cravings for carbs and sweets. Leptin (the satiety hormone) drops, making it harder to feel full. Consistent 7–9 hours helps reset these hormones and supports healthy weight.
Growth hormone & nighttime repair
While you sleep, your body releases growth hormone — like “little workers” repairing muscles, joints, cartilage, organs, and tissues overnight. This is why quality sleep is essential for recovery, especially after exercise or as we age.
Practical sleep hygiene tips
Create a dark, cool, quiet bedroom
Dim lights, block blue light 1 hour before bed, lower temperature to ~69–70°F, use white noise.
Timing matters
No caffeine after 3 p.m., finish dinner and exercise 3–4 hours before bed, keep consistent bedtime even on weekends.
Evening routine
Watch heartwarming or funny content, read the Bible, pray, or listen to calming audio instead of action movies or news.
Natural sleep support & Sleepies
Dr. Colbert shares his Sleepies formula (ashwagandha KSM-66, magnesium glycinate, GABA, melatonin, lemon balm, 5-HTP) and discusses prescription options like Rozerem or low-dose Remeron when needed. He strongly advises against long-term use of Benadryl due to its effect on memory.
Spiritual encouragement for restful sleep
“You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” — Isaiah 26:3
Additional powerful verses include Philippians 4:6-7, Psalm 127:2, and 1 Peter 5:7. Cast your cares on the Lord and trust Him for true rest.
Resources and next steps
Watch the full episode to learn how better sleep can transform your energy, health, and peace of mind. Start with one or two sleep hygiene changes this week and consider Dr. Colbert’s Sleepies for natural support.
