Book review of The Ageless Brain by Dr. Dale Bredesen discussing functional medicine strategies to prevent Alzheimer’s and support long-term brain health

Hopeful, practical insights on protecting and strengthening brain health from Dr. Dale Bredesen’s latest book, The Ageless Brain

Dale Bredesen, a pioneer in the functional neurology world and a leader in Alzheimer’s prevention and reversal research, published The Ageless Brain just this year.

Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss are diagnoses often fraught with fear—right up there with cancer. If you’ve had a loved one affected by this memory-robbing disease, you know exactly what I mean.

But here’s the exciting and empowering message Dr. Bredesen reminds us of:

Alzheimer’s disease—like any other “dis-ease” in the body—has roots.
It is the result of underlying physiological changes, not an inevitable fate.

That means there are steps you can take to prevent it—and in some cases, reverse it.

In The Ageless Brain, Dr. Bredesen distills many of the common root causes of cognitive decline, including:

  • Insulin resistance
  • Toxicity
  • Chronic infections
  • Inflammation

What makes this book stand out is not just the science, but how practical and actionable it is. Dr. Bredesen offers clear, real-world strategies you can implement in daily life to support long-term brain health.

One key concept he emphasizes is metabolic flexibility—the ability of our mitochondria (the power plants of our cells) to efficiently run on both carbohydrates and fats depending on availability.

To support this, he promotes a dietary framework called KetoFlex 12/3, which includes:

  • A 12-hour eating window
  • No food for 3 hours before bed
  • A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet centered on whole foods

Importantly, this isn’t about packaged “keto snacks.” It’s about real food and sustainable habits—something most people can realistically maintain.

Exercise and muscle maintenance are also central themes in the book. And exercise doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the gym. Walking with a friend, biking, pickleball, golfing (without the cart), yoga—the best movement is the one you enjoy and will keep doing.

More than many of my previous book reviews, The Ageless Brain is truly for everyone. It shines a hopeful light on what’s possible and reminds us that it’s never too late to start improving brain health.

If you’re interested in taking proactive steps to support your own cognitive health and want a partner on that journey, I’d love to help.
👉 Schedule a free discovery call, and let’s talk about what that could look like for you.