In this episode of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with neurologist and bestselling author Dr. Dale Bredesen to challenge everything we think we know about brain aging.
Dr. Bredesen shares why age-related cognitive decline is not just treatable but in many cases preventable—and even reversible. Drawing on decades of lab research and clinical success, he outlines the root causes of cognitive decline and introduces the listener to the "cognoscopy," a powerful tool for early detection. With practical, science-backed insights on inflammation, insulin resistance, environmental toxins, and the emerging brain microbiome, this is a masterclass in 21st-century brain health.
You’ll here them discuss:
- Why cognitive decline is often preventable—and sometimes reversible
- The three key drivers of cognitive decline: inflammation, energy deficit, and toxicity
- How to use the "cognoscopy" to catch signs of dementia early
- The role of the brain’s microbiome and oral health in neurodegeneration
- Why mold, metals, and mycotoxins are underestimated threats
- New blood biomarkers like pTau217, GFAP, and NFL
- Supplements that support brain health, including magnesium threonate and omega-3
- How to tailor treatment using functional lab testing and wearables
- Stories of patient recovery—and what makes the difference
Guest Details:
Rupa Health Details:
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Labs Mentioned
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro to Dr. Dale Bredesen & episode theme: cognitive decline is preventable.
02:29 – Dr. Bredesen introduces The Ageless Brain and its purpose.
04:46 – Functional medicine approach outperforms standard care in trials.
06:00 – His background and frustration with traditional neurodegenerative treatments.
10:22 – First anecdotes and pushback from medical establishment.
14:34 – Scientific fraud in Alzheimer’s research; real recovery stories.
18:49 – What a “Cognoscopy” includes: labs, cognitive tests, optional MRI.
21:16 – Key biomarkers: P-Tau217, GFAP, NFL.
29:45 – 7 fundamentals for brain health: diet, exercise, sleep, stress, brain training, detox, supplements.
36:29 – Brain microbiome and oral health links to cognition.
41:01 – Secondary factors: neurotransmitters, hormones, stress markers.
46:15 – APOE4 insights; inflammation vs. toxin-driven cases.
49:03 – Oral/sinus probiotics, targeted treatments.
51:17 – Testing is the most critical first step.
53:00 – Making testing and precision medicine more accessible.
56:46 – What the “Brain Scan” test includes.
59:26 – Closing: book, website, and resources.
