Maintaining an Ageless Brain

Yeah, I know, another Book recommendation…Nerd alert.. So this book by Dr. Dale Bredesen, a pioneer in the functional neurology world and a leader in reversing Alzheimer’s disease published this book just this year. Alzheimer’s and memory loss is a disease often frought with fear, right up there with cancer I would say. If you have any relatives or know someone who has been affected by this memory robbing disease, then you know what I’m talking about. But here’s the exciting thing that Dr. Bredesen reminds us of; Alzheimer’s disease like any other dis-ease in the body has roots and is manifesting as the result of physiologic changes in the body! This is empowering, because there are steps you can take to reverse them! He distills many of the common roots such as insulin resistance, toxicity, and infection. Not only does he describe these roots, but the book gives very practical things you can implement in your daily life to make sure memory loss doesn’t occur in the first place. He talks about the importance of maintaining metabolic flexibility–the idea of ensuring our mitochondria (powerplants in our cells) can be running on both carbs and fats depending on availability. He has studied and promotes a diet called ketoflex 12/3. This means you have a 12 hour eating window, and he recommends no food for 3 hours before bed. This is very achievable for most of us. The diet also is anti-inflammatory and includes plenty of fresh whole foods (don’t reach for the processed ‘Keto Snack’!

Exercise and muscle maintenance are also key aspects to maintaining brain health. Exercise doesn’t have to mean ‘go to the gym’, Start walking with a friend, bike, play pickleball, Golf (without the cart), yoga, etc–Find something that lights you up that you can maintain!

As I mentioned, this book more than some previous book reviews, is for everyone. It shines a new light on what is possible and reminds us that it’s never too late to start improving brain health! Check it out! If you’re wondering about improving your own brain health and want a partner on the journey, schedule a free discovery call so we can chat about what that looks like!