Can you boost your brain and NAD with exogenous ketones? | Dr. Dominic D'Agostino
Jul 8, 2023
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Dr. Dominic D'Agostino, renowned researcher and professor, discusses how exogenous ketones can boost brain health, muscle perseverance, reverse dementia, and provide mental health benefits. He explains how ketones can be harnessed without following a ketogenic diet. The podcast also explores the impact of ketones on weight loss, brain injuries, Alzheimer's disease, and longevity. Additionally, the conversation covers the correlation between insulin resistance and Alzheimer's, the effects of metformin on blood glucose and mitochondria, and its potential in cancer prevention.
Ketones can serve as an alternative energy source for the brain, improving cerebral blood flow and potentially enhancing cognition.
Ketogenic diets and exogenous ketones show promise in alleviating symptoms and improving cognition in Alzheimer's disease.
Deep dives
The Role of Ketones in Neuropharmacology and Metabolic Therapies
This podcast episode features an interview with Dom Diagostino, an associate professor and research scientist, discussing his work on metabolic strategies for targeting central nervous system disorders. He highlights the importance of ketones as an alternative energy source for the brain, especially in the context of fasting and ketogenic diets. Metformin, which is commonly used to manage blood glucose levels, is also explored, with insights on its mild mitochondrial toxicity and potential synergistic effects in cancer therapy. The episode emphasizes the benefits of ketosis for various neurological conditions and performance resilience in extreme environments.
The Impact of Ketones on Brain Health and Cognition
The discussion delves into the neurological benefits of ketones beyond specific disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Ketones are shown to provide an alternative energy source for the brain, crossing the blood-brain barrier and improving cerebral blood flow. The calming effect of ketones, mediated by increased GABA and adenosine levels, is highlighted, making them potential cognitive enhancers. While ketones can be used by anyone to support brain health, they may be particularly beneficial in high-stress situations or for individuals experiencing brain fog or cognitive decline.
Ketones in Alzheimer's Disease and Age-Related Cognitive Decline
This part of the episode focuses on the potential applications of ketogenic diets and exogenous ketones for Alzheimer's disease. The discussion highlights the role of glucose hypometabolism and insulin resistance in the brain, also known as type three diabetes, as hallmarks of the disease. Ketones provide an alternative fuel source for the brain, overcoming the impaired glucose utilization. Studies on the use of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) and coconut oil reveal promising results in alleviating symptoms and improving cognition. Additionally, the episode mentions the metabolic benefits of ketones for aging and age-related decline.
Practical Approach to Using Ketones for Everyday Health
The episode concludes with practical recommendations for incorporating ketones into daily life for general health enhancement. A low-carb Mediterranean diet, focusing on whole foods and fiber-rich vegetables, is suggested as a good starting point. Incorporating small amounts of MCT oil with food and considering the use of ketone salts or esters, such as ketone-containing supplements, is also mentioned. The importance of individualized approaches based on personal preferences and goals is emphasized.
Dom D'Agostino is a renowned researcher and professor in neuroscience, physiology, and metabolic health. He has significantly contributed to studying the ketogenic diet, oxygen toxicity, hyperbaric medicine, and nutritional ketosis. His work has explored the impact of ketones and ketogenic diets can improve functioning and health in different conditions, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and overall metabolic health. His work has significantly impacted the understanding and application of metabolic therapies, especially the ketogenic diet and exogenous ketones, in improving health and performance.
In this interview, we cover how exogenous ketones work inside your body, how you can use them for brain health, muscle perseverance, reversing dementia, and as a nootropic and mental health benefits.
We cover how you can harness the benefits of ketones without going to the ketogenic diet. Dom also reviews the best ketone products on the market.
Inka Land (MSc neuropsychology) shares tools and habits for mental well-being, brain health, and a balanced lifestyle. She's a TEDx speaker and co-author of educational books on health.
https://www.youtube.com/@iaminkaland
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