Optimizing Brain Health: Strategies to Prevent Alzheimer's and Dementia

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Teryn Clark, a neurologist with a passion for brain health, who shares her personal journey into the field and the profound impact her mother's battle with dementia had on her career and focus. Dr. Clark differentiates dementia from Alzheimer's, explaining how the former is a symptom and the latter a disease, and explores various risk factors contributing to cognitive decline. Her proactive stance on preventative brain health is detailed in her "Brain Health Action Plan," aiming to arm listeners with practical lifestyle changes to safeguard their cognitive well-being.

Get ready to rethink your dietary habits as we examine the significant effects of sugar on brain health and Alzheimer's risk. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Dr. Clark discusses how reducing sugar intake can lower the chances of developing Alzheimer's and empower healthier living. We contrast past and present sugar consumption trends, shedding light on the increasing health risks processed foods and seed oils pose today. Dr. Clark also provides strategies to overcome sweetness addiction and emphasizes the importance of incorporating both physical and cognitive exercises to bolster brain health.

Sleep, supplements, and holistic health feature prominently as we explore their roles in maintaining cognitive function. Dr. Clark offers practical advice on improving sleep hygiene and the brain-cleansing benefits of deep sleep. We also discuss the cognitive advantages of various supplements and the crucial interplay between mental health and dementia risk. Through a holistic lens, Dr. Clark underscores the necessity of integrating exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle changes into daily routines, advocating for a comprehensive approach to optimizing brain health and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.