How Inflammation, Microplastics, and Poor Nutrition Sabotage Our Brains and Make Us Depressed with Dr. Drew Ramsey

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Mar 19, 2025

Dr. Drew Ramsey, a board-certified integrative psychiatrist and proponent of Nutritional Psychiatry, discusses how modern environmental factors like microplastics contribute to mental health issues. He highlights the alarming rise in depression, especially among teens, and debunks misconceptions about brain health treatments. Dr. Ramsey emphasizes the importance of diet, sleep, and community in boosting mental well-being. He also explores the potential of psychedelics in therapy and the need for holistic approaches to mental health care.

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ADVICE

Proactive Mental Health

Prioritize seeking mental health help before reaching a crisis point.
Engage in proactive mental fitness, like physical fitness, rather than waiting for symptoms.

INSIGHT

Microplastics and Brain Health

Microplastics are a newly discovered concern for brain health, possibly increasing inflammation.
Limit exposure through mindful choices like avoiding heating food in plastic.

ADVICE

Reduce Microplastic Exposure

Avoid using plastic tea bags due to microplastic contamination; opt for paper or loose leaf.
Consider saunas for potential microplastic detoxification; choose smaller fish like sardines to minimize exposure.

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This episode is brought to you by BiOptimizers, Our Place, and Manukora Honey.

Mental health disorders are on the rise in our modern world, as our brains and bodies face constant disruption from environmental toxins in the air, water, and food. Meanwhile, connection and stress look vastly different than they once did. Today’s guest sheds light on what has changed, why these disorders are increasing, and—most importantly—how to protect ourselves.

Today on The Dhru Purohit Show, Dhru sits down with Dr. Drew Ramsey to discuss the current state of mental health and treatment. Dr. Ramsey breaks down the top lies we've been told about brain health and healing. He also explores the challenges of modern life, how they disrupt our brains and mental well-being, and the lifestyle habits that make these disruptions worse. Plus, he shares the optimal diet for reducing the risk of depression and neurodegenerative diseases, along with the powerful impact of journaling, spending time in nature, and building community.

Drew Ramsey, MD, is a board-certified integrative psychiatrist, best-selling author, and a leading proponent of Nutritional Psychiatry and Mental Fitness. He served as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons for twenty years. Dr. Ramsey founded the Brain Food Clinic in New York City and Spruce Mental Health in Jackson, WY. A sought-after speaker, he conducts workshops nationwide, and his work has been widely featured in the media.

In this episode, Dhru and Dr. Ramsey dive into:

Top misconceptions about healing the brain (1:14)
The biggest challenges impacting brain health today (4:12)
How to protect your brain from microplastics (8:10)
The top lifestyle habits damaging mental health (13:08)
Which diets increase the risk of depression and neurodegenerative diseases (18:18)
Is the chemical imbalance theory a myth, and the role of inflammation (26:42)
How to improve access to better medications (35:12)
The link between nutrition, depression, and finding the right practitioner (39:44)
How journaling and nature impact mental health (43:09)
Caring for elderly parents and the importance of community (47:57)
The role of psychedelics in mental health treatment (51:44)
How politics influence healthcare in America (1:17:40)
How to connect with Dr. Ramsey (1:24:35)

Also mentioned in this episode:

For more on Dr. Ramsey, follow him on Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, and his Website.

This episode is brought to you by BiOptimizers, Our Place, and Manukora Honey.

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