The Keto Diet and Alzheimer’s [amazing new research!] | EP 318
Sep 17, 2024
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Dr. Heather Sandison, a leading naturopathic doctor specializing in neurocognitive medicine, challenges traditional views on Alzheimer’s and presents her new book. She shares practical tools to improve cognition and emphasizes the importance of lifestyle choices in preventing dementia. Listeners learn about the transformative effects of the ketogenic diet on cognitive health and hear inspiring stories of recovery. Sandison also discusses innovative concepts like 'cognoscopy' for assessing cognitive risks and the surprising role of diet in brain health.
The podcast challenges the notion that Alzheimer's is inevitable, emphasizing that lifestyle choices can significantly influence brain health and cognition.
Genetic predispositions, such as carrying the APOE-4 gene, do not guarantee the development of Alzheimer's, as lifestyle modifications can delay or prevent cognitive decline.
Real-life testimonials illustrate that tailored lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, can dramatically improve cognitive function and enhance quality of life.
Deep dives
Challenging Alzheimer's Inevitability
Alzheimer's disease is often seen as an inevitable part of aging, but recent discussions emphasize that it is not unavoidable. Factors such as lifestyle choices, diet, and social connections play a significant role in brain health and cognition. Despite genetic predispositions and age-related risks, many individuals can make lifestyle modifications that may prevent or delay cognitive decline. The emphasis is placed on focusing on controllable aspects like nutrition, exercise, and mental engagement rather than succumbing to the belief that dementia is fated.
The Impact of Genetics and Cognition
Genetic factors, such as carrying the APOE-4 gene, are still considered in Alzheimer's risk, but they do not doom individuals to develop the disease. Evidence suggests that a significant portion of dementia cases can be delayed or prevented entirely, challenging the notion that genetics is solely determinative. Studies indicate that lifestyle interventions, like regular physical activity and cognitive exercises, can have protective effects against cognitive decline, even for those with a genetic predisposition. This perspective encourages proactive measures and positive changes in daily habits.
Real-Life Success Stories
The podcast shares inspiring testimonials of patients who have shown significant improvement in cognitive function through systematic lifestyle changes. For instance, one case highlighted is a woman with severe cognitive impairment who, after a tailored intervention involving diet, exercise, and environment modifications, saw her cognitive assessment score rise dramatically within a few months. These stories serve as powerful examples of how dedicated support from family and healthcare providers can lead to remarkable reversals in dementia symptoms. Such narratives reinforce the idea that it is possible to reclaim quality of life and cognitive ability at any age.
Addressing Misconceptions about Alzheimer’s Treatments
There is growing skepticism about the efficacy of traditional pharmaceutical approaches to treating Alzheimer’s, especially medications that target beta-amyloid plaques. While these treatments may reduce the presence of amyloid, they often fall short in improving meaningful cognitive outcomes. The conversation stresses the importance of a holistic approach, focusing not only on symptom management but also on the underlying causes of cognitive decline. As the podcast emphasizes, understanding and addressing the root factors contributing to neurological health is more likely to yield positive results than relying solely on pharmaceutical interventions.
The Importance of a Supportive Environment
The environment a person lives in plays a crucial role in their overall health, particularly for those at risk of cognitive decline. Factors such as diet, social influences, and the presence of supportive caregivers significantly impact the success of health interventions. Encouraging a healthy lifestyle often requires cooperation from family members and caregivers to make necessary changes in dietary choices and daily routines. It's highlighted that surrounding oneself with positive influences and committed individuals can enhance the effectiveness of preventive measures against dementia-related decline.
But if you’ve been following me for a while, you know that I’m a firm believer that no disease, including Alzheimer’s, is inevitable—or irreversible if you catch it early enough.
And my guest wholeheartedly agrees. I’m joined by Dr. Heather Sandison, a leading naturopathic doctor specializing in neurocognitive medicine who studied under the brilliant brain health pioneer, Dr. Dale Bredesen. She’s the founder of Solcere Health Clinic, San Diego’s go-to brain optimization center, and Marama, the first memory care facility focused on returning residents to independent living.
In this episode, we explore her new book, “Reversing Alzheimer’s: The New Toolkit to Improve Cognition and Protect Brain Health,” where she challenges everything we thought we knew about this disease and offers practical tools to keep your brain sharp at any age.
