MAHA Report Contributor Amy Sapola Discusses Teen Sleep Health and Policy Changes — Health Policy Podcast

Amy Sapola, a contributor at The MAHA Report, discusses critical issues surrounding Teen Sleep Health, Public Health Policy, Healthcare Access, and Nutrition and Wellness in the latest episode of the Health Policy Podcast. The conversation highlights the urgent need for policy changes to address sleep deprivation among adolescents.

WASHINGTON — May 25, 2026 — In a recent episode of the Health Policy Podcast, Amy Sapola, a clinical pharmacist and contributor at The MAHA Report, explored the impact of sleep deprivation on teenagers. The discussion centered on the structural issues in public health policy that hinder adolescents from obtaining adequate sleep, emphasizing the importance of adjusting school start times.

Sapola pointed out that approximately 43% of high schools in the U.S. start before 8:00 a.m., which significantly affects students' ability to get the recommended 8 to 10 hours of sleep. "Essentially what it is, is they found that the circadian rhythm of teenagers shifts as they get older," Sapola said. She noted that starting school later could lead to improved health outcomes, including reduced traffic accidents among teen drivers.

The conversation also addressed the broader implications of sleep deprivation on various health aspects, including mental health and academic performance. "We know that sleep deprivation really affects every part of the system," Sapola stated. She highlighted the alarming trend of teenagers relying on energy drinks to cope with sleep deficits, warning that "we're training kids to use substances to feel normal from this sleep deficit."

The MAHA Report provides insights and analysis on health policy issues, focusing on initiatives that promote well-being and healthy living. It aims to inform and engage the public on critical health topics.

About the Health Policy Podcast

The Health Policy Podcast focuses on the intersection of health policy, energy, infrastructure, and economic growth. It features expert guests discussing pressing health issues and policy developments that impact communities across the nation.