The Brain Health Revolution Podcast

Our brand new show, Your Brain On, is now live! Your Brain On is a podcast about the neuroscience of everything. Each episode will look at an aspect of life through a neuroscientific lens, with science-based stories, interviews, anecdotes, advice, and immersive sounds. We’ll be exploring how every facet of our reality — both good and bad — affects our minds, from the broader picture right down to the cellular intricacies. We’ve started with five brand new episodes: • Your Brain On New Year’s Resolutions • Your Brain On Dry January • Your Brain On Love • Your Brain On Football • Your Brain On Sugar Plus, to celebrate the launch of our new show, we’re giving away some very exciting prizes, including memberships to our NEURO Academy community! Search ‘Your Brain On’ via your favourite podcast app to find and subscribe to the new show, or visit https://thebraindocs.com/podcast for more info, on both the show and the launch giveaway. Thank you! We hope you enjoy the new show.

What happens to your brain when you stop drinking? Is doing Dry January the best way to quit? In this second preview episode of Your Brain On, we discuss the neuroscience and psychology of: • How alcohol affects your brain, at a cellular level • Why a gradual detoxification might be better than the hard stop encouraged by Dry January • The fascinating history of alcohol’s role in culture, from ancient civilizations to the Prohibition era We also speak to Dr. Howard Rankin, an incredible psychologist who has done remarkable work in the realm of addiction and behavior. Dr. Rankin talks to us about the challenges of overcoming alcohol dependence, the differences between avoiding and confronting temptations, and the importance of focusing on progress over perfection. ‘Your Brain On’ is a brand new podcast from hosts Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. We’re excited to preview this second episode here on Brain Health Revolution. Your Brain On launches February 14th. Search ‘Your Brain On’ via your favorite podcast app, or check our social media for more information.

On New Year’s Eve, we experience feelings of joy, sadness, thankfulness, regret, and nostalgia, as our brains recall episodic moments from the past 12 months. Surges of dopamine mix with our aspirations, forming resolutions. As we count down to the new year, we’re full of excitement and hope. But most of us don’t manage to stick to our new year’s resolutions beyond January. In this episode of Your Brain On, we discuss the neuroscience and psychology of: • Why new year’s resolutions so often fail • How we can keep our new year’s resolutions, with science-backed techniques • Whether new years are good starting points for forming new habits We’re joined by Dr. Phillippa Lally, a Senior Lecturer of Psychology at the University of Surrey in the UK, and our friend Howard Jacobson, an expert in the mechanics of behavior change. ‘Your Brain On’ is a brand new podcast from hosts Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. We’re excited to preview this first episode here on Brain Health Revolution. We’ll share more about our new upcoming show soon.

In this episode, we’re joined by science writer and author of ‘The Irrational Ape — Why We Fall for Disinformation, Conspiracy Theories, and Propaganda’, David Robert Grimes, for a discussion about science communication and the unrelenting rise of misinformation on social media. We talk about: • The dangers and mechanics of online disinformation • Why, in spite of rampant mistruths, social media remains one of the most powerful tools in history for science communication • How to navigate online information by better understanding and trusting scientific method • The tactics of bad-faith influencers and conspiracy theorists • How online debates and discussions can become more productive • The beauty and importance of being wrong Visit David’s website: https://www.davidrobertgrimes.com/ David’s books: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Thinking-Flawed-Logic-Critical/dp/1615197931/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=good+thinking+grimes Support for the Brain Health Revolution Podcast comes from NEURO Academy, an online community of individuals working together towards optimum long-term brain health, through science-backed on-demand courses, live coaching, nutrition guidance, and more. Find out more at: thebraindocs.com/neuro-academy Follow doctors Ayesha and Dean on: • Instagram: @TheBrainDocs • TikTok: @TheBrainDocs More information on neuroscience: • Our blog: thebraindocs.com/blog/ • Our brain-healthy recipes: thebraindocs.com/recipes/ The Brain Health Revolution Podcast is hosted by Doctors Ayesha and Dean Sherzai.

In this episode, we’re joined by renowned psychologist Dr. David Spiegel — co-founder and chief scientific officer of science-backed hypnosis app Reveri — for a discussion about the use of hypnosis and hypnotherapy in clinical settings. We talk about: • The research-supported neuroscience of hypnosis • How hypnosis can help focus your attention and hone self-control, rather than causing you to lose control, as is often misconstrued by the spectacle of theatrical stage shows • The ways hypnosis is used to manage pain, reduce stress, and address issues like phobias and sleep problems • How hypnosis may be used during medical procedures to alleviate pain and reduce dependence on opioids • How the Reveri app is helping to make hypnotherapy more accessible Find out more about the Reveri app at: reveri.com CONTENT WARNING: dear listeners, please note that the discussion in this episode touches on some sensitive topics, including trauma, sexual assault, and recovery. Support for the Brain Health Revolution Podcast comes from NEURO Academy, an online community of individuals working together towards optimum long-term brain health, through science-backed on-demand courses, live coaching, nutrition guidance, and more. Find out more at: thebraindocs.com/neuro-academy Follow doctors Ayesha and Dean on: • Instagram: @TheBrainDocs • TikTok: @TheBrainDocs More information on neuroscience: • Our blog: thebraindocs.com/blog/ • Our brain-healthy recipes: thebraindocs.com/recipes/ The Brain Health Revolution Podcast is hosted by Doctors Ayesha and Dean Sherzai.

In this episode, we discuss the often-overlooked importance of addressing behavior change for improving brain health and overall wellbeing, and how we need to involve our communities at every step of change towards such optimizations. We talk about: • The neuroscience and circumstantial influences of behavior change • The importance of meeting people where they are and adjusting behavior change strategies accordingly • How to strategize self-improvement without it feeling cold, rigid, unnatural, and, ultimately, ineffective • Why the past can teach us a lot about modern behavior change at a community level This is part one of a conversation about behavior, the systems that make it possible, and how we can achieve long-term change in the midst of a healthcare landscape that can sometimes feel hopeless. Support for the Brain Health Revolution Podcast comes from NEURO Academy, an online community of individuals working together towards optimum long-term brain health, through science-backed on-demand courses, live coaching, nutrition guidance, and more. Find out more at: thebraindocs.com/neuro-academy Follow doctors Ayesha and Dean on: • Instagram: @TheBrainDocs • TikTok: @TheBrainDocs More information on neuroscience: • Our blog: thebraindocs.com/blog/ • Our brain-healthy recipes: thebraindocs.com/recipes/ The Brain Health Revolution Podcast is hosted by Doctors Ayesha and Dean Sherzai.

In this episode, Ayesha and Dean discuss ‘neuroplasticity’, a term that was once echoed only within the walls of neuroscience labs, but which has now become an increasingly well-known word for describing how our brains evolve and adapt. We talk about: • How modern technology has enabled our understanding of neuroplasticity • What science previously got wrong about neuroplasticity • How neuroplasticity actually works • The Hebbian and homeostatic theories of neuroplasticity • How we can all improve our neuroplasticity through improved lifestlyes • Neuroplasticity through the lens of our NEURO concept: Nutrition, Exercise, Unwind, Restore, and Optimize Support for the Brain Health Revolution Podcast comes from NEURO Academy, an online community of individuals working together towards optimum long-term brain health, through science-backed on-demand courses, live coaching, nutrition guidance, and more. Find out more at: thebraindocs.com/neuro-academy Follow doctors Ayesha and Dean on: • Instagram: @TheBrainDocs • TikTok: @TheBrainDocs More information on neuroscience: • Our blog: thebraindocs.com/blog/ • Our brain-healthy recipes: thebraindocs.com/recipes/

This episode was a live presentation for our members in the NEURO Academy online community. We presented a summary of the pivotal role that lifestyle changes play in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease and answered questions at the end.  The research presented was on the following: Dietary patterns and risk of Alzheimer's Relationship of serum cholesterol and Alzheimer's  Supplements and brain health DHA/EPA and Alzheimer's risk Exercise Unwind or stress management and the latest data and risk for Alzheimer's Sleep disorders and slee hygiene  Building cognitive reserve  NEURO Academy is a membership based online community with over 500 active members, with resources to achieve optimal brain health, better cognition and prevent cognitive decline. The platform provides the opportunity to connect with us and an empowering community, and participate in weekly live Q&A sessions, education on evidence based nutrition and other lifestyle factors, live cooking demonstration , live podcasts and Q&A with remarkable health leaders, interest groups, book clubs, science club discussions, access to on-demand courses on prevention of neurological diseases,  evidence-based nutrition and cooking, behavioral sciences and many others on various topics related to brain health. Members can receive CE or CME credits and certification after taking the course. Join us by visiting NEUROacademy.com.   Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com

In this episode, we spoke with Nicole Vignola, who is a cognitive neuroscientist, author and speaker committed to making neuroscience tangible for the masses. With 12 years of coaching experience, Nicole has a BSc in Neuroscience from the University of Bristol and an MSc in Organisational Psychology with a research focus in cognitive neuroscience. She works with organisations and individuals to teach them how to better understand their unique physiology, providing them with practical tools and science-backed methods to improve their mental health, optimise reflexes and reach peak mental performance, enhancing their daily lives and careers. Through creating healthy habits, Nicole helps people best support their mental health, manage their stressors and make better decisions.  Her first book ‘Rewire: Your Neurotoolkit for Everyday Life' is coming out in May 2024. Follow Nicole on Instagram: @nicoleneuroscience Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com

In this episode In this illuminating episode, we dive deep into the world of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly prescribed medications for heartburn and acid reflux. While these drugs have brought relief to millions worldwide, recent studies have begun to uncover potential links between PPI use and an increased risk of dementia. We explore the mechanisms that might underlie this association, the clinical implications for patients, and the broader question of how seemingly unrelated conditions might be connected at a molecular level. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a patient on PPIs, or simply someone curious about the intricate web of human health, this episode promises to offer fresh insights into a hotly debated area of medicine. References: Main papers disucssed in this episode: - Northuis, Carin, et al. "Cumulative Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Risk of Dementia: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study." Neurology (2023). https://n.neurology.org/content/early/2023/08/09/WNL.0000000000207747?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=organic - Gomm, Willy, et al. "Association of proton pump inhibitors with risk of dementia: a pharmacoepidemiological claims data analysis." JAMA neurology 73.4 (2016): 410-416. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2487379 - Li, Min, et al. "Proton pump inhibitor use and risk of dementia: systematic review and meta-analysis." Medicine 98.7 (2019). - Ortiz-Guerrero, Gloria, et al. "Proton pump inhibitors and dementia: physiopathological mechanisms and clinical consequences." Neural plasticity 2018 (2018). - Wijarnpreecha, Karn, et al. "Proton pump inhibitors and risk of dementia." Annals of translational medicine 4.12 (2016). - Haenisch, Britta, et al. "Risk of dementia in elderly patients with the use of proton pump inhibitors." European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience 265 (2015): 419-428. - Batchelor, Riley, et al. "Dementia, cognitive impairment and proton pump inhibitor therapy: a systematic review." Journal of gastroenterology and hepatology 32.8 (2017): 1426-1435. - Gray, Shelly L., et al. "Proton pump inhibitor use and dementia risk: Prospective population‐based study." Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 66.2 (2018): 247-253. - Ahn, Nayeon, et al. "Do proton pump inhibitors increase the risk of dementia? A systematic review, meta‐analysis and bias analysis." British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 89.2 (2023): 602-616. Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com  

In this episode, we dive deep into the recent, much anticipated randomized controlled trial on the MIND diet. The headlines were ablaze with the dissapointing, less-than-stellar results of the study, but was it truly the diet that didn't work as well as it should have, or was the methodology flawed?  We discussed the background of the findings on the MIND diet in previous studies and its effect on cognitive health, the detailed methodology of the current randomized controlled trial, its outcomes  and how it impacts our understanding of nutrition and brain health.  Citations: Barnes, Lisa L., et al. "Trial of the MIND Diet for Prevention of Cognitive Decline in Older Persons." New England Journal of Medicine (2023). Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com

In this episode, we delve deep into the role fats play in brain health. We bust some common myths about dietary fats and talked about the latest scientific evidence to paint a clearer picture of how these essential nutrients contribute to our cognitive function. Episode Highlights: Understanding Fats: We start by breaking down what fats are, discussing their diverse types and functions. We’ll explain saturated, unsaturated, trans, and essential fatty acids and why they matter. Brain Composition and Fats: Our brains are nearly 60% fat. We explore how these fats maintain the structure of the brain and facilitate its various functions. Fats and Hormone Production: Hormones regulate many bodily functions, including those of the brain. We’ll detail how fats are integral to the production of vital hormones. Importance of Fats for Cell Membrane Health and Myelin Sheath: We dive into how fats contribute to the integrity of cell membranes and why this is crucial for efficient brain function. Fats as an Energy Source: While glucose is the preferred fuel, fats can also power our brains. Discover the conditions under which the brain turns to fats for energy. Critical Role of Fats in Brain Development: Learn about the critical role certain fats play in brain development during infancy and childhood. Fats in Brain Aging and Cognitive Decline - the latest research: We’ll explore recent research that shows how consuming healthy fats can potentially slow cognitive decline and decrease the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Fats' Impact on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Finally, we’ll explore how omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, factors implicated in many neurological disorders. In this episode, we venture beyond myths and take a look at the science behind fats and brain function. Join us as we uncover the intricate role of fats in maintaining a healthy brain and its impact on our mental health.   Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com  

In this episode, we explore the connection between hormone replacement therapy and dementia risk, the impact of hormones on brain development and resilience throughout life, and the critical considerations for individuals undergoing pre- and post-menopause in terms of brain health. Specifically, we delve into a recent scientific article suggesting that menopausal hormone replacement therapy heightens the risk of dementia in a Danish population. We illuminate the intricate relationship between hormones, lifestyle risk factors, and brain health. Reference: Pourhadi, N., Mørch, L. S., Holm, E. A., Torp-Pedersen, C., & Meaidi, A. (2023). Menopausal hormone therapy and dementia: nationwide, nested case-control study. bmj, 381. Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com

This episode is part of a live recording for our NEURO Academy community, and the topic of the discussion is the genetics of Alzheimer’s disease, in particular a deep dive into Apolipoprotein E4 or APOE4 gene, which is the most influential genetic risk factor associated with Late Onset Alzheimers Disease.  We describe the evolutionary aspects of Apolipoproteins, how they are produced, how the different isoforms of apoe influence the different factors leading to AD, how it effects lipid metabolism and immune functions in the brain, and what is the latest evidence on the epigenetic of APOE4. Typically, the community members post their questions ahead of time and we structure the conversation in a way to address their questions, and also answer their questions during the recording.    NEURO Academy is a membership based online community with over 700 active members, with resources to achieve optimal brain health, better cognition and prevent cognitive decline. The platform provides the opportunity to connect with us and an empowering community, and participate in weekly live Q&A sessions, education on evidence based nutrition and other lifestyle factors, live cooking demonstration , live podcasts and Q&A with remarkable health leaders, interest groups, book clubs, science club discussions, access to on-demand courses on prevention of neurological diseases,  evidence-based nutrition and cooking, behavioral sciences and many others on various topics related to brain health. Members can receive CE or CME credits and certification after taking the course. Join us by visiting NEUROacademy.com.   Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs YouTube: The Brain Docs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com

We’re thrilled to share our conversation with our guest on today’s episode, Kimberley Wilson, PhD. She is a highly respected psychologist, author, and expert in the field of mental health and nutrition, and in this episode, she shares her insights on how to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of social media and stay away from false information related to nutrition and mental health. Kimberey is the author of  How to Build a Healthy Brain published in 2020 and Unprocessed: How the Food We Eat is Fuelling our Mental Health Crisis published this year.  If you’re interested to learn more about evidence based neurology and brain health in an online community, check out our NEURO Academy platform: NEUROAcademy.com  Follow Kimberley Wilson: Instagram: @foodandpsych Website: kimberleywilson.co   Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com

Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast, where we discuss the latest breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. In today's episode, we discussed the new monoclonal antibidy, Donanemab, that is offering hope to Alzheimer's patients and their families, and how Donanemab is different from other treatments. Donanemab is a monoclonal antibody that has shown promising results in clinical trials. It works by targeting a protein called amyloid-beta, which is believed to play a significant role in the development of Alzheimer's disease. The drug binds to the amyloid-beta protein and clears it from the brain, reducing the amount of plaque buildup that causes damage to brain cells. While the results of the clinical trials are promising, there are still many challenges to overcome. Donanemab is expensive and requires regular infusions, which may limit its accessibility. There is also a need for further research to determine the long-term effects of the drug and its efficacy in treating different stages of Alzheimer's. Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com  

This episode is a conversation with the New York Times bestselling author and neuroscientist, Lisa Genova. Her debut novel Still Alice about a Harvard University professor who suffers early onset Alzheimer's disease sold millions of copies and has been translated into 37 languages. The book was adapted into a film in 2014 and won the Academy Award for Best Actress for Julianne Moore's highly acclaimed performance as Alice Howland. Her first work of nonfiction, REMEMBER: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting, was published in March 2021, and was an instant New York Times bestseller. Her first TED talk, "What You Can Do To Prevent Alzheimer's" has been viewed over eight million times and her most recent TED talk, "How Memory Works--and Why Forgetting is Totally OK" was the sixth most watched TED talk of 2021. She has been recognized numerous times and has won many awards for here incredible work, including receiving The Pell Center Prize for Story in the Public Square, for "distinguished storytelling that has enriched the public dialogue."  We discussed her journey of becoming a story teller, her empowering message and important work for the community.  Follow Lisa: Instagram: @authorlisagenova Twitter: @lisagenova Website: LisaGenova.com   Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com  

This episode is a deep dive into the topic of headache with our colleague, an expert in the field of headache medicine, Dr. Chelsea Stone. We explored the definition, classification, general presentation, diagnosis and some of the latest treatments available for headaches.  Dr. Stone is a board-certified neurologist with specialty in Headache Medicine. She holds a master’s degree in psychology, completed her neurology residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center and fellowship in headache medicine at University of Soutern California, where she now serves as full time faculty. Dr. Stone understands the unique challenges of chronic pain and takes a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach to patient care, with special interest in treating pregnant and lactating women. In addition to patient care, Dr. Stone is very passionate about physician well-being and serves as Assistant Program Director of Wellness for the neurology residency program at LA County + USC and as the Well-being Champion for the Keck neurology department. Follow us: To participate in the weekly NEURO Science Club and join the discussions about the latest on brain health, join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com      

In this episode, we discuss epilepsy and describe the life of the 19th century philosopher and writer, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and how the seizures that tormented him throughout his life would become both a source of creative inspiration and an obstacle that he struggled to overcome. You can read the blog by visiting our website here. Follow us: Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com

In this episode, we explore Parkinson's disease (PD), which is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder of aging after Alzheimer's disease, and the most common movement disorder. It affects approximately 1 million people in the United States, and it is estimated that 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Worldwide more than 10 million people suffer from PD.  We described the disease in a patient story, discussed its epidemiology, causal pathways including genetics, signs and symptoms, medical and invasive treatments, prevention and future trends in research.  For more reading, here are some references:  Bloem, Bastiaan R., Michael S. Okun, and Christine Klein. "Parkinson's disease." The Lancet 397.10291 (2021): 2284-2303. Ascherio, Alberto, and Michael A. Schwarzschild. "The epidemiology of Parkinson's disease: risk factors and prevention." The Lancet Neurology 15.12 (2016): 1257-1272. Chen, Honglei, et al. "Consumption of dairy products and risk of Parkinson's disease." American journal of epidemiology, 165.9 (2007): 998-1006. Warnecke, Tobias, et al. "Gastrointestinal involvement in Parkinson’s disease: pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management." npj Parkinson's Disease 8.1 (2022): 31. Follow us: To participate in the weekly NEURO Science Club and join the discussions about the latest on brain health, join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: The Brain Docs @thebraindocs Facebook: The Brain Docs TikTok: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com