In this compelling episode of Metabolic Matters, host Dr. Nasha Winters sits down with renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Kris Smith to explore the powerful intersection of neurosurgery, metabolic health, and regenerative medicine. With decades of experience treating some of the most devastating brain diseases—like glioblastoma and Alzheimer’s—Dr. Smith shares how his clinical journey and personal experiences with both of his parents' neurological illnesses have shaped his pioneering integrative approach to brain care.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Dr. Smith’s path to becoming a neurosurgeon and his passion for neuroanatomy
How metabolic dysfunction contributes to neurological diseases like brain cancer and dementia
The role of ketogenic diets in treating epilepsy, glioblastoma, and Alzheimer’s
The critical importance of mitochondrial function and inflammation in brain aging and disease
How gut-brain axis and nutrition can influence neuroimmune function and mental health
Insights into innovative clinical trials including the TRED study and a proposed NPH cytokine study
Dr. Smith’s approach to maintaining resilience while treating complex cases—and how he “practices what he preaches”
Key Takeaways:
The brain uses up to 20% of our body’s energy—making metabolic efficiency essential for optimal function.
Brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases may share a common origin: mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic inflammation.
Therapeutic ketogenic diets are gaining traction as adjunct therapies in neurology and oncology, with some patients seeing unprecedented responses.
Dr. Smith emphasizes lifestyle medicine—including clean nutrition, physical activity, and stress reduction—as foundational to healing and prevention.
Real patient stories highlight how lifestyle changes can lead to long-term stability and even reversal of disease progression.
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Connect with Dr. Kris Smith:
🔗Website: https://www.barrowneuro.org/person/kris-smith-md/
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