This thesis is divided into to two parts. The first part investigates the effects of the pharmaceutical gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), also known as sodium oxybate (Xyrem), in various clinical... Show moreThis thesis is divided into to two parts. The first part investigates the effects of the pharmaceutical gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), also known as sodium oxybate (Xyrem), in various clinical populations, including individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Most of research in part one investigates GHB in those with the condition of narcolepsy. The effects of GHB on sleep parameters, including sleep quality, is a key focus point. Other chapters explore the hormonal phenotype of narcolepsy and the impact GHB has on the hormones leptin and ghrelin in both narcolepsy and health controls. Gamma-hydroxybutyrate has a history of abuse and know abuse liability. Chapter 5 in this thesis explores the how illicit GHB and Xyrem differ in their abuse potential and incidence. Part two of the thesis focuses on how various aspects of lifestyle influence metabolism and indicators of health status. In Chapter 9, eating behavior is evaluated in response to ecologically relevant amounts of sleep loss common experienced by average people in the modern world. In Chapter 10, we explore how health young adults respond to a four-day, Paleolithic theory-themed nature trip in the German countryside. Show less
