604: What You Must Know to Prevent & Reverse Alzheimer’s | Dr. Heather Sandison
Jun 11, 2024
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Dr. Heather Sandison discusses preventing and reversing Alzheimer's through lifestyle interventions like a ketogenic diet, stress management, exercise, and sleep. She emphasizes the impact of stress and magnesium deficiency, the benefits of MCT oil and coconut oil, and personalized precision medicine for brain health. The podcast covers the importance of behavioral change, caregiver self-care, optimizing sleep hygiene, and healthy aging strategies for cognitive well-being.
Alzheimer's complexity extends beyond amyloid plaques, emphasizing diverse paths to cognitive decline.
Early cognitive decline signs can evoke fear, but proactive measures and proper evaluation differentiate normal aging from Alzheimer's.
Cognoscopy assessments reveal modifiable dementia risk factors, emphasizing early testing and interventions for optimal cognitive health.
Ketogenic diet, lifestyle changes, and personalized supplementation enhance cognitive well-being, promoting brain resilience and potential improvement.
Deep dives
Understanding the Link Between Amyloid and Alzheimer's
Amyloid plaques have long been a focus in Alzheimer's research, but new perspectives suggest that while amyloid is associated with Alzheimer's, it is not the sole cause. The shift away from the amyloid hypothesis reveals the complexity of cognitive decline, highlighting that different paths can lead to the same diagnosis.
Early Signs and Concerns for Alzheimer's Diagnosis
Recognizing early signs of cognitive decline, such as memory lapses and brain fog, can evoke anxiety and fear in individuals who have witnessed loved ones experience dementia. However, proactive measures and evaluation, even from providers trained in comprehensive approaches, can help differentiate normal aging from potentially sinister conditions like Alzheimer's.
Cognoscopy and Genetic Risk Factors for Dementia
Cognitive assessments like a cognoscopy, recommended by Dr. Bredesen, can provide insights into modifiable risk factors for dementia. Genetic predispositions, such as the APOE4 allele, increase the likelihood of Alzheimer's but do not solely determine the outcome. Early testing and interventions can optimize cognitive health regardless of genetic influences.
Implementing Lifestyle Changes for Cognitive Function
Engaging in the ketogenic diet, coupled with lifestyle modifications, can significantly impact cognitive health. Incorporating exercise, stress management practices, sleep optimization, and supplementation tailored to individual needs can enhance cognitive function and overall brain health, promoting resilience and potential improvement in cognitive outcomes.
Improving Air Quality at Home
Opening doors and windows for an hour daily helps dilute indoor pollution caused by off-gassing from furniture and paints. Investing in air filters like IQ Air's GC Multi-Gas model can notably reduce symptoms and enhance air quality, especially in areas near industrial plants or with poor outdoor air quality.
Decluttering for Mental Health
Decluttering spaces to reduce overwhelm can significantly impact mental health, particularly in individuals on the path of cognitive decline. Clearing clutter, one area at a time, fosters a sense of rest and simplicity, benefiting both mental well-being and cognitive function, especially as individuals age.
Caregiving for Alzheimer's Patients
Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's face increased risk of cognitive decline and mental health challenges. Prioritizing self-care, including exercises, hobbies, and social engagements, is crucial to prevent caregiver burnout and maintain overall well-being. Promoting self-care not only benefits caregivers but also enhances their ability to care for their loved ones effectively.
