The Dan Buettner Podcast New Year Refresh: Hack Your Brain for a Longer Life with Dr. Daniel Amen
Jan 20, 2026
Dr. Daniel Amen, a renowned psychiatrist and founder of Amen Clinics, joins Dan Buettner to discuss brain optimization for a healthier life. They dive into the significant risks to brain health, such as sugary foods and lack of exercise, and introduce the Bright Minds prevention checklist. Amen emphasizes the impact of sugar on cognition and the need for daily self-monitoring. He also shares insights on SPECT imaging and the dangers of alcohol and marijuana for young brains, advocating for small daily habits to improve brain health. It's a must-listen for a cognitive reset!
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Naming Your Mind To Gain Distance
- Daniel G Amen named his mind after a mischievous pet raccoon to gain distance from negative thoughts.
- He uses the metaphor to cage or tickle the 'raccoon' and avoid believing every intrusive thought.
Prioritize Brain Health Daily
- Love and care for your brain by avoiding known harms and following clear prevention lists.
- Test hormones and vitamin D, avoid head injuries, and reduce sugar and processed foods to lower dementia risk.
Concussions Leave Clear Signatures
- Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common and often overlooked yet clearly visible on SPECT scans.
- TBI can cause focal decreased brain activity that profoundly affects mood and cognition.
