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The Brain Podcast
The Brain Podcast
Author: Dr. Shabnam Das Kar MD and Andrea Spyros
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© 2022 Dr. Shabnam Das Kar MD and Andrea Spyros
Description
We translate medical science into practical actions you can start today. Science-driven. Behaviour-designed. Built to protect your brain for the long term.
29 Episodes
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Blue Zones are fascinating, but they are not a prescription. We explain what the data can (and cannot) prove, then turn a few key principles into practical brain-health strategies—satiety, food choices, alcohol clarity, and Singapore’s lesson: environment beats willpower.
In this episode, we unpack:
What Blue Zones are, why they became popular, and why observational data is not the same as proof.
The nine Blue Zones principles—and which ones matter most for brain health in real life.
The 80% rule (Hara Hachi Bu): why it is hard to measure, and how to build awareness without shame.
Practical behaviour design for food choices (including the bread basket problem and reducing mindless snacking).
“Set up, skill up, speak up”: using environment, skills, and family conversations instead of willpower.
Plant-forward eating without making animal foods “good” or “bad,” plus shortcuts that support follow-through.
“Wine at five”: what we disagree with, what the evidence suggests, and why timing and context matters.
Singapore as a modern Blue Zone example—and what it teaches us about making healthy choices easier by design.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00: Blue Zones Explained for Better Brain Health
03:58: Blue Zones principles and practical 80% full tips
09:08: Design Your Eating Environment to Stop at Comfortable Fullness
12:12: Natural Movement, 80% Fullness, and Compassionate Eating
15:19: How to reduce snacking
19:05: Set Up for Success
20:06: Set Up, Skill Up, Speak Up
22:29: Tiny Habits
22:57: Family Support for Health and a Plant-Slant Food Style
24:08: Blue Zones food style
25:08: Tiny Habits for Easier Meals and Better Food Choices
29:52: Tiny Habits for Easier Food Choices
30:45: Quick dinner solutions and what is true about "wine at five"
37:33: Make Healthy Choices Easier
41:20: Blue Zones Recap
LISTEN
KEY TAKEAWAYS
What “Blue Zones” Means
Journalist Dan Buettner mapped places with unusually high numbers of people living past 100.
Locations: Icaria (Greece), Sardinia (Italy), Loma Linda (California), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Okinawa (Japan), and Singapore (added 2023)
The findings are observational (patterns noticed), not proof of cause and effect.
The 9 Blue Zones Principles
Move naturally
Downshift (reduce stress)
Belonging (faith or community)
Right tribe (supportive friends)
Loved ones first
80% rule (stop eating when lightly full)
Plant slant (more vegetables)
Wine at five
Know your purpose
80% Rule (Hara Hachi Bu)
Aim to stop eating when you feel slightly full.
Eat protein first; it helps you feel satisfied longer than carbs.
At restaurants: say “no, thank you” to the bread basket or keep it off the table.
After each meal: ask, “How full am I?” and give yourself a simple rating.
Skip shame. If you eat past 80%, notice it and learn; do not judge.
If you snack, ask, “Why am I eating?” (bored, stressed, hungry or habit) and adjust.
Design Your Environment (Set up, Skill up, Speak up)
Set up: keep tempting foods out of the house; stock foods that fit your plan.
Skill up: learn 1–2 fast recipes; repeat them until easy (sheet pan, slow cooker)....
The episode also uses the Lancet Commission 2024 update as a hopeful frame: a substantial proportion of dementia cases may be delayed or prevented at a population level by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors across the lifespan (including untreated vision loss and high LDL cholesterol, newly added in 2024).
What we cover in this episode
1) “Preventable” is a population message, not a personal verdict
The Lancet Commission’s estimate is about population attributable risk: what could happen if a whole community reduced certain risks. It is not a personal scorecard, and it should never be used for blame or shame.
2) The 14 modifiable dementia risk factors (Lancet 2024)
The Lancet Commission groups risk factors across life stages, and the 2024 update expanded the list from 12 to 14, adding untreated vision loss and high LDL cholesterol.
Early life
1. Less education
Midlife
2. Hearing loss
3. Depression
4. Traumatic brain injury (head injury)
5. Physical inactivity
6. Diabetes
7. Smoking
8. Hypertension
9. Obesity
10. Excess alcohol use
11. High LDL cholesterol (new in 2024)
Late life
12. Infrequent social contact / social isolation
13. Air pollution
14. Untreated vision loss (new in 2024)
Key point: these percentages and estimates describe what might shift at the population level, not your individual fate.
Practical takeaways and habit strategies
Hearing: test, treat, and make the support easy to use
Untreated hearing loss can reduce conversation quality, increase effortful listening, and contribute to withdrawal from social connections—one of the pathways researchers discuss in dementia risk models.
Practical steps mentioned
Book a hearing assessment and repeat as advised
If hearing aids are recommended, build routines that make consistent use easier (placement, charging, simplifying access)
Resource mentioned
hearWHO: a free World Health Organization hearing screening app using digits-in-noise technology (screening only, not diagnostic).
Vision: reduce cognitive load and protect safety and independence
Vision problems are not only about “seeing clearly.” Under-corrected vision can increase cognitive burden and reduce confidence with reading, driving, and social engagement. The Lancet Commission 2024 identifies untreated vision loss as a modifiable risk factor for dementia.
Practical steps mentioned
Routine eye exams and timely updates to prescriptions
Ask whether a retina exam is appropriate (especially if living with hypertension or diabetes)
Smell: an underappreciated signal, and potentially trainable
Smell is tightly linked with memory and emotion. Reduced smell has been studied as a possible early signal in some neurodegenerative conditions, and the episode discusses practical way...
In this episode, Andrea and Dr. Kar delve into the impact of stress on the body and share practical techniques to cultivate stress resilience. They introduce the five-four-three-two-one grounding technique, which helps listeners reconnect with their surroundings and manage anxiety. By guiding listeners through breathing exercises and mindfulness practices, they aim to empower everyone to create brain-healthy habits. Tune in to experience these techniques in real-time and discover how small changes can lead to a more peaceful life.
00:00: Introduction to Brain Health and Stress Management
00:39: Introduction to Stress Resilience Techniques
11:42: Breathing Techniques for Calmness
22:22: Heart Math and Transition Techniques
24:18: Grounding Techniques for Stress Relief
29:00: Grounding Techniques for Anxiety
31:15: Helpful Insights
31:17: Loving Kindness Meditation Techniques
32:29: Wishing Happiness and Peace for Others
34:15: Loving Kindness Meditation and Resilience Building
38:00: Finding What Works for You
38:57: Benefits of Noticing Your Feelings
5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique
5 things you can see
4 things you can feel
3 things you can hear
2 things you can smell
1 thing you can taste
Loving Kindness Meditation (Sharon Salzberg)
May I be happy, may I be healthy, may I be peaceful and at ease.
May you be happy, may you be healthy, may you be peaceful and at ease.
May we be happy be happy, may we be healthy, may we be peaceful and at ease.
May they be happy, may they be healthy, may they be peaceful and at ease.
Andrea Spyros
We explore the vital link between gut health and brain function with Luca Cuccia, founder of InJoy. Luca shares his health journey and how InJoy leverages AI and microbiome science for personalized gut health solutions.
Key Topics:
Gut health’s impact on mental health and inflammation
The role of food, lifestyle, and symptom tracking
AI-driven personalized health recommendations
Sustainable strategies for better gut health
00:00:00 – Introduction to Gut Microbiomes and Brain Health00:00:14 – Meet the Guests: Dr. Shabnam Das Kar, Andrea Spyros, and Luca Cuccia00:01:17 – Luca’s Personal Journey with Health and Gut Issues00:04:11 – The Importance of Discussing Gut Health00:05:13 – Connecting Symptoms: Skin Issues and Gut Health00:08:54 – Personalization in Gut Health Solutions00:09:40 – Indicators of a Healthy Gut Microbiome00:13:08 – Understanding Validated Results in Gut Health Testing00:14:10 – Assessing Gut Health Through Symptoms and Testing00:16:29 – The Role of Gut Health in Overall Well-Being00:21:00 – AI’s Role in Gut Health Analysis00:22:09 – The Importance of Sustainable Health Changes00:25:33 – Tracking Diet and Its Impact on Gut Health00:30:27 – Building a Better Relationship with Food00:33:26 – Final Thoughts on Health and Behavior Change00:39:31 – Where to Find InJoy and Final Remarks
About Luca Cuccia and Injoy
Audio-only version on YouTube
In this episode, we explore the impact of the gut microbiome on brain health. We discuss how gut bacteria influence blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and chronic inflammation—three key factors in cognitive function.
Learn how the microbiome contributes to mental health issues and autoimmune conditions, often without apparent symptoms. To simplify gut health, we introduce an analogy: understanding who is present, who their friends are, and what they do together.
While food plays the most significant role in shaping the microbiome, there is no quick-fix supplement. We encourage small, manageable food changes, starting with the easiest meals and incorporating more protein. We also highlight the importance of a supportive food environment, such as a well-stocked “super fridge” and “super pantry.”
00:00:00 – Introduction to Gut Microbiome and Brain Health00:00:10 – Blending Medical Insights with Behavior Design00:00:28 – Meet the Hosts: Dr. Shabnam Daskar and Andrea Spyros00:00:40 – Defining the Gut Microbiome00:01:08 – Understanding Microbes in the Gut00:02:16 – The Role of Bacteria: Good vs. Bad00:02:31 – The Evolution of Gut Bacteria00:04:07 – Foundations of Brain Health00:04:44 – Gut Microbiome’s Impact on Blood Glucose00:06:36 – Identifying Gut Microbiome Problems00:09:36 – Framework for Understanding the Gut00:10:06 – The Complexity of Gut Microbiome Relationships00:14:11 – Managing Expectations About Gut Microbiome Knowledge00:17:24 – Actionable Steps for Improving Gut Health00:17:34 – Behavioral Change and Food Choices00:22:02 – Creating a Super Fridge and Pantry00:24:43 – The Importance of Self-Compassion in Dietary Changes00:26:25 – Final Thoughts on Gut Microbiome and Food Choices00:33:45 – Conclusion and Next Steps
Audio-only version on YouTube
Did you know that loneliness can impact your health even more than smoking?
Loneliness is not just being alone; it’s a mismatch between the connections you want and the ones you have.
00:00:00 – Introduction to LonelinessDid you know that a sense of malaise or burnout can actually be a sign of loneliness?
00:00:29 – Meet the ExpertsIntroduction of Dr. Shabnam Daskar, Andrea Spyros, and guest Amy Vest.
00:01:39 – Defining LonelinessUnderstanding loneliness as a deficit in desired relationships versus actual relationships.
00:03:23 – Loneliness vs. Isolation vs. SolitudeExploring the differences between loneliness, isolation, and solitude.
00:04:14 – Factors Impacting LonelinessDiscussing life circumstances that can lead to feelings of loneliness.
00:07:28 – Health Impacts of LonelinessExploring the serious health consequences associated with loneliness.
00:09:47 – Understanding Subjective LonelinessAmy shares her personal experience with loneliness and the importance of recognizing it.
00:14:12 – Identifying Personal NeedsHow to identify what factors contribute to your feelings of loneliness.
00:18:08 – Action Steps for ConnectionPractical steps listeners can take to decrease loneliness and increase social connection.
00:19:22 – The Importance of Small ActionsEmphasizing the significance of small, consistent actions in building connections.
00:21:05 – Navigating RejectionAddressing the challenges of reaching out and dealing with non-responses.
00:25:10 – The Power of ExperimentationEncouraging an experimental mindset in social interactions.
00:28:15 – Building Connections Through Shared MomentsSharing personal stories about the impact of small gestures on relationships.
00:36:10 – Quality Relationships and Life SatisfactionDiscussing findings from the Harvard Study of Adult Development.
00:38:08 – Practical Actions for Social EngagementListing actionable steps to foster social connections.
00:42:15 – The Role of SunnyIntroduction to Sunny, a project aimed at enhancing social well-being.
00:54:47 – Conclusion and Next StepsWrapping up the discussion and encouraging listeners to take action.
Our Guest is Amy Vest, Behavior Designer in Public Health and Wellbeing
Sunny
Watch the audio-only version on YouTube
Learn the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity in our latest podcast episode. Listen now for clarity on whether gluten is your friend or foe. Did you know gluten sensitivity can manifest in various symptoms beyond gut issues? From brain fog to joint pain, anxiety to skin conditions and schizophrenia, gluten can impact more than you think. Fertility issues or recurrent miscarriages? Gluten could be a hidden trigger.
Introduction to Gluten: 00:00:00-00:02:02
Defining Gluten: 00:02:03-00:02:34
Personal Experience with Gluten Sensitivity: 00:03:59-00:04:09
Symptoms of Gluten Sensitivity: 00:04:09-00:04:52
Differentiating Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity: 00:15:17-00:16:56
Testing for Gluten Sensitivity: 00:18:43-00:19:04
Celiac Disease and Autoimmune Conditions: 00:22:07-00:23:11
Importance of Testing for Celiac Disease: 00:25:53-00:26:56
Being Gluten-Free vs eating gluten-free food: 00:34:50-00:35:46
Final Thoughts and Recommendations: 00:37:47-00:39:58
Quiz: Are You Sensitive To Gluten?
Reference
Catassi, Carlo, et al. “Diagnosis of non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS): the Salerno experts’ criteria.” Nutrients 7.6 (2015): 4966-4977.
In this episode of the Brain Podcast, we delved into the topic of blue light-blocking glasses with guest Glen Lubbert, founder of Stamina Lab. The discussion revolved around the effectiveness of blue light glasses, the importance of blue light in our circadian rhythm, and the misconceptions surrounding blue light exposure. Glen emphasized the need for a balanced approach to using blue light glasses, highlighting the importance of personal preference and individual needs.
Glen shared valuable insights, debunking myths about blue light glasses and shedding light on their real benefits. He emphasized the significance of finding what works best for each individual, whether it’s wearing blue light glasses, adjusting light exposure throughout the day, or implementing Tiny Habits like putting the phone to bed early as part of a wind-down routine.
00:00:00 – Introduction to Blue Light Blocking Glasses
00:05:30 – Importance of Getting Enough Blue Light in the Morning
00:11:14 – Research on Blue Light Blocking Glasses Effectiveness
00:13:58 – Impact of Content on Sleep Quality
00:16:39 – Discussion on Melatonin and Blue Light Glasses
00:19:43 – Types of Blue Light Glasses and Their Benefits
00:24:09 – Cognitive Chewing Gum for Sleep
00:27:06 – Hype or Not: Blue Light Glasses Evaluation
00:27:52 – Tiny Habit Recipe: Putting Phone to Bed at Night
00:28:38 – Where to Find Glenn Lubert
About our guest, Glen Lubbert
The Stamina Lab
Watch the audio-only version on YouTube
References
Bauducco, Serena, et al. “A bidirectional model of sleep and technology use: A theoretical review of How much, for whom, and which mechanisms.” Sleep Medicine Reviews (2024): 101933.
Shechter, Ari, et al. “Blocking nocturnal blue light for insomnia: A randomized controlled trial.” Journal of psychiatric research 96 (2018): 196-202.
In this episode, we delved into the fascinating world of cardiovascular health, specifically focusing on hypertension, with the esteemed cardiologist Dr. Maria Emilia Figueiredo Teixeira from Brazil. Dr. Maria Emilia shared insights from her groundbreaking research on the influence of gratitude, forgiveness, and spirituality on hypertension control.
00:00:00 – Introduction to Hypertension Concerns00:05:30 – Research on Central Hemodynamics and Endothelial Function00:09:39 – Defining Spirituality, Religiosity, and Religion00:13:10 – Simple Intervention Approach in the Study00:14:40 – Participants and Hypertension Stages00:16:33 – Utilization of WhatsApp for Messaging00:20:16 – Discussion on One-Time Actions00:22:44 – Results of the Study00:24:11 – Standard of Care in Brazil00:25:17 – Future Plans and Scaling the Intervention00:28:50 – Gratitude and Conclusion
Our podcast guest:
Dr. Maria Emilia Figueiredo Teixeira MD, PhD, FESC
Cardiologist and Researcher at the Hypertension Unit of the Federal University of Goiás, Brazil.
Dr. Maria Emilia on Instagram
Watch the audio-only version on YouTube
Reference
FEEL Study: Focus on Spirituality, Gratitude Can Lead to Decrease in BP, Increase in FMD
We discuss the importance of vision, hearing, and sense of smell to the risk of dementia. Changes in these senses can serve as signals for potential dementia and how addressing these root causes can help prevent dementia down the line. We emphasized the connection between these senses and the nervous system, as well as the role of inflammation in impacting them. We also shared practical strategies such as getting regular vision check-ups, testing hearing, and engaging in olfactory training to improve brain function.
Introduction to the Importance of Senses: 00:00:00
Vision, Hearing, and Smell as Indicators of Dementia: 00:02:00
Impact of Vision on Brain Function: 00:03:25
Hearing Loss and Dementia Risk: 00:09:39
The Significance of Sense of Smell: 00:20:26
Olfactory Training and Brain Function: 00:27:19
Common Connections Between Senses and Dementia: 00:31:54
Audio-only version on YouTube
References
Test your hearing. Hear WHO app
Unusual sense of smell and detection of Parkinson’s Disease.
Woo, Cynthia C., et al. “Overnight olfactory enrichment using an odorant diffuser improves memory and modifies the uncinate fasciculus in older adults.” Frontiers in Neuroscience 17 (2023): 1200448.
(00:00) – Intro: Nine ways to reduce Alzheimer’s risk
(01:47) – Importance of ApoE4 in dementia
(03:15) – Different ways to reduce dementia risk
(04:12) – 9 Things You Can Do to Support Your Brain Health
(07:00) – Pay attention to brain, body, and supplements for optimal health
(07:51) – RDAs and benefits of supplements
(08:34) – Omega3 testing and supplementation
(10:08) – Omega3 supplements for atrial fibrillation
(11:38) – Supplementing with a symphony of nutrients, not just one
(12:32) – Vitacog Supplementing with Vitamin B and Omega3
(14:10) – Taking supplements for long-term benefits
(17:07) – B vitamin testing for correcting genetic variations
(17:32) – A positive aging mindset reduces dementia risk
(19:15) – Tiny habits shift mindset for healthy aging
(20:57) – A positive mindset helps with knee pain
(21:36) – Longevity questions to ask yourself
(22:06) – Inspiration for physical fitness in older age
(22:46) – Hormones and Alzheimer’s disease in women
(26:39) – Head trauma and dementia risk importance for people with ApoE4
(29:24) – Impact of Alcohol on women’s health
(31:40) – What is the easiest place to quit alcohol?
(32:36) – Loss of sense of smell increases the risk for Alzheimer’s disease
(33:13) – Using Essential Oil for Memory Training
(35:03) – Home sniff tests for brain health
(36:42) – Outro: Support yourself with these tips
Chapters created by ChapterMe
Audio-only version on YouTube
References
Woo, Cynthia C., et al. “Overnight olfactory enrichment using an odorant diffuser improves memory and modifies the uncinate fasciculus in older adults.” Frontiers in Neuroscience 17 (2023): 1200448.
If you’ve been told you have the ApoE4 gene that puts you at risk for Alzheimer’s or think you may have it, most likely your doctor told you there’s nothing you can do. That’s not entirely true. We’ll share the nine things you can do to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s. Many people learn they have a genetic risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and feel like victims. We’ll help you protect your brain now so the risk is mitigated.
(00:00) – Have You Got the APOE4 Gene Associated with Alzheimer’s?
(00:33) – Heads Up: Julie Bergfeld on Her Alzheimer’s
(01:07) – Julie Bergfeld on Her Alzheimer’s Gene
(01:35) – The APOE4 gene associated with Alzheimer’s
(02:21) – APOE4 gene associated with Alzheimer’s disease
(02:58) – Julie’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease
(08:15) – Brain Games for APOE 4
(08:33) – Challenging Your Brain
(09:44) – Dementia and behaviour change
(11:11) – Starting small: How to Get Out of the Tiny Habits
(11:44) – Mental health: Start small and build momentum
(12:23) – How to Keep From Getting Down or Defeated Over a Diagn
(15:25) – Does thinking about getting older affect your dementia risk?
(19:33) – Genetic Testing
(24:54) – Julie on the Genetic Testing
(27:58) – APOE4 gene test
(29:11) – Alzheimer’s risk for women, genetics and the treatment
(31:31) – A message about hope for your brain in your 30s
(33:34) – Outro
Chapters created by ChapterMe
Audio-only version on YouTube
About Julie Bergfeld
Audio-only version on YouTube
References
Levy, Becca R., et al. “Positive age beliefs protect against dementia even among elders with high-risk gene.” PloS one 13.2 (2018): e0191004.
Alzheimer’s Disease genetic fact sheet.
You may have heard the term circadian rhythm and think it only affects air travel across multiple time zones or shift workers, but it really affects every aspect of your day. Listen to learn more about how to keep your body clock in tip-top shape.
(00:03) – Intro
(00:46) – What is Circadian Rhythm?
(02:20) – Best Analogy for Circadian Rhythm
(03:43) – Effect on our Body Organs
(05:44) – Impact on Food: Snack Culture
(08:49) – Zeitgebers Influences: Effect of Sleep on Circadian Rhythm
(11:41) – Behavior Design Suggestions
(13:48) – Out of Sync with your Circadian Rhythm
(16:16) – Importance of Circadian Rhythm and Sleep for Younger People
(18:29) – Circadian Rhythm Impact on Blood Pressure
(22:15) – SAD in Winter: Are Light Boxes Helpful?
(26:00) – Time Restricted Eating and Intermittent Fasting
(27:53) – Benefits of Reducing Exposure to Artificial Light after its Dark
(30:04) – Using Flux App and Sleep Masks
(31:46) – Final Thoughts
(34:09) – Outro
Chapters created by ChapterMe
Reference
Gill, Shubhroz, and Satchidananda Panda. “A smartphone app reveals erratic diurnal eating patterns in humans that can be modulated for health benefits.” Cell metabolism 22.5 (2015): 789-798.
Audio-only version on YouTube
Podcast Episode: What is the Tiny Habits Method For Behaviour Change?
(00:00) – Intro: How to Sleep Better With a Better Brain
(00:42) – Blood glucose, diabetes risk factors
(01:42) – Brain health 6 tips to prevent Alzheimer’s
(02:28) – Blood glucose
(03:43) – Brain health, diabetes and heart
(04:48) – Checking blood glucose levels regularly is very important for your health.
(08:54) – Alzheimer’s disease, brain glucose
(12:09) – Better brain health for women with PCOS
(12:41) – Blood glucose for brain health
(13:53) – Blood glucose levels for brain health
(16:58) – Hemoglobin A1C and Glycation
(21:38) – CGM: The future of blood glucose monitoring
(26:19) – CGM for pre-diabetes and weight loss
(27:37) – CGM range for diabetes and longevity
(28:50) – Dementia risk factors, fasting insulin levels
(32:21) – Outro
Chapters created by ChapterMe
Reference
Gill, Shubhroz, and Satchidananda Panda. “A smartphone app reveals erratic diurnal eating patterns in humans that can be modulated for health benefits.” Cell metabolism 22.5 (2015): 789-798.
References
Kerti, Lucia, et al. “Higher glucose levels associated with lower memory and reduced hippocampal microstructure.” Neurology 81.20 (2013): 1746-1752.
Zhang, Xiaoling, et al. “Midlife lipid and glucose levels are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.” Alzheimer’s & Dementia 19.1 (2023): 181-193.
00:00 – Intro
00:45 – What is blood pressure?
06:03 – How to manage hypertension effectively?
09:54 – Blood Pressure Readings: Heart pressure and pulse pressure
12:06 – SPRINT Trial: How to manage hypertension in older people?
15:29 – Categories of blood pressure
17:40 – How to measure blood pressure?
24:01 – Five tips for reaching optimal blood pressure
28:46 – Summary
29:26 – Outro
Chapters created by ChapterMe
Reference
Gill, Shubhroz, and Satchidananda Panda. “A smartphone app reveals erratic diurnal eating patterns in humans that can be modulated for health benefits.” Cell metabolism 22.5 (2015): 789-798.
Audio-only version on YouTube
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings (American Heart Association)
Health Risks From High Blood Pressure
Food is many things: it can be nutritious fuel for your body and brain, a delicious treat for your taste buds, or even the cause of brain fog and inflammation. In this episode, learn more about the ways food can support you or hold you back.
(00:00) – Intro
(00:51) – Purpose of food and its effects
(02:36) – Diabetes of the brain
(05:08) – How to eat a healthy diet?
(08:08) – How to get yourself to eat long term
(11:02) – Effect of food on the 3 foundations of brain health: Inflammation
(05:05) – How do you maintain healthy blood glucose levels?
(23:51) – Food and optimal blood pressure
(26:07) – DASH Diet, Low carb, Paleo, other diet comparisons
(30:42) – Summary
(31:36) – Outro
Chapters created by ChapterMe
Audio-only version on YouTube
Audio-only version on YouTube
If you think you have to be training for a marathon or working out for hours each day just to be fit and have a better brain, that’s just not true.
Our guest Geoff Girvitz is the host of the Dad Strength Podcast and an expert in health and behaviour change. He runs weekly online calls for men who want to earn the mug that says, World’s Greatest Dad.
But even if you’re not a dad, you’ll benefit from his wisdom. Today we’ll touch on the challenges of getting moving, movement, and brain health and get specific with some habits you can try right away.
(00:00) – How to Get Moving for Your Brain and Body
(00:53) – Address Resistance to Exercise
(02:14) – Exercising for Fun
(03:14) – Exercising after the Pandemic
(07:15) – What Does Exercise Do for the Brain?
(11:35) – Exercise and Brain Health
(14:42) – Movement and brain health
(19:41) – Six senses in the body
(22:03) – Border Push and Resilience
(26:14) – Confessions of a Regular Trainer
(30:24) – Will Exercise Help Me Lose Weight?
(35:08) – Exercising for Fun and Weight Loss
(38:50) – Outro
Chapters created by ChapterMe
About Geoff Girvitz
Podcast Episode: What is the Tiny Habits Method For Behaviour Change?
Everyone has trouble sleeping once and a while. Maybe you had too much caffeine, or you’ve got a huge project due. But If you’re struggling with more than a few sleepless nights or more than a few sleepless hours each night, this episode is for you. We'll discuss what chronic insomnia is and how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) can help.
(00:00) - Intro
(00:46) - Chronic Insomnia: What is it?
(02:00) - Chronic Insomnia vs Acute Insomnia
(07:15) - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia
(10:15) - Tiny Habits and Identity
(11:27) - How to Sleep Better with Chronic Insomnia with the CBTi Method
(12:45) - Coughing With Chronic Insomnia (CBTi)
(16:44) - Chronic Insomnia
(20:32) - How to Sleep Better
(21:01) - Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Sleep Disorders
(22:03) - CBTi for Sleep Meds
(23:27) - Chronic Insomnia: How to Sleep Better
(24:37) - Final Thoughts on Chronic Insomnia
Chapters created by ChapterMe
CBTi Resources:
Insomnia Solved Program Dr. Brandon Peters
Conquering Insomnia Program Dr. Greg Jacobs
Sink Into Sleep Book by Judith Davidson, Ph.D.
Audio-only version on YouTube
Podcast Episode: What is the Tiny Habits Method For Behaviour Change?
If you think you have to be training for a marathon or working out for hours each day just to be fit and have a better brain, that’s just not true. Our guest Geoff Girvitz is the host of the Dad Strength Podcast and an expert in health and behaviour change. He runs weekly online […]
Do herbs and supplements like melatonin, magnesium, lavender, and chamomile tea work for sleep? Learn about 7 things to help you get more sleep.
(00:00) - Intro
(00:57) - Difference between Herbs and Supplements
(03:09) - 7 things to help you get more sleep
(06:22) - How to measure your Melatonin?
(09:11) - Benefits of Melatonin for brain health
(12:08) - How to manage anxiety with magnesium
(15:06) - Does Chamomile Tea Help You Sleep?
(17:07) - Sleep Mask and Essential Oils
(19:12) - Valerian herb
(21:35) - Amino acids, Protein, and vitamin D
(24:45) - Final thoughts on Herbs and Supplements
(26:37) - Outro
Chapters created by ChapterMe
Audio-only version on YouTube
Podcast Episode: What is the Tiny Habits Method For Behaviour Change?



