#226 - Neuroscientist: Most UNUSUAL Way to Improve Brain Function in Days | Louisa Nicola
Mar 1, 2024
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Neuroscientist Louisa Nicola reveals unusual ways to improve brain function, discussing optimizing the brain for speed, working with NBA & MLB athletes, aerobic effects on the brain, reversing brain age, weight lifting impact, benefits of muscle mass, fasting with the Beyonce drink, cholesterol concerns, heart rate variability, nutrient supplements, nicotine use, vitamin D benefits, and controversies in health practices.
Resistance training releases myokines that enhance BDNF for neuron growth.
Muscle-based myokines act as anti-inflammatory agents in the brain.
Muscle mass aids in glucose regulation, preventing insulin resistance.
Maintaining muscle mass reduces the risk of insulin-related conditions.
Different fuel sources impact energy levels and cognitive functions differently.
Deep dives
Effects of Resistance Training on Brain Health
Resistance training has been shown to produce many benefits for the brain. Studies have indicated that engaging in resistance training, such as weightlifting, can lead to the release of beneficial muscle-based proteins called myokines. Myokines play a role in promoting brain health by enhancing the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps in the proliferation of new neurons in the hippocampus.
Myokines and Their Impact on Brain Function
Myokines, which are small muscle-based proteins, have receptors in various organs, including the brain. When myokines are released from the muscles, they can have beneficial effects on brain function. Certain myokines, such as Erycin, can help increase the expression of BDNF, contributing to the growth of new neurons in the brain. Additionally, myokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6) have been found to act as anti-inflammatory agents when released from the muscles.
Importance of Muscle Mass and Glucose Regulation
Muscle mass serves as an important endocrine organ that plays a role in glucose regulation. Having adequate muscle mass can help in glucose uptake and storage, reducing the risk of elevated blood glucose levels and insulin resistance. Muscle mass acts as a sink for excess glucose, aiding in maintaining optimal blood sugar levels and preventing insulin resistance.
Preventing Insulin Resistance and Glucose Management
Insulin resistance can lead to various health issues, including type 2 diabetes. Maintaining muscle mass and regulating glucose levels can help prevent insulin resistance. Building muscle through resistance training and managing blood glucose effectively through muscle uptake can support overall metabolic health and reduce the risk of insulin-related conditions like diabetes.
The Significance of Different Fuel Sources for the Body
The discussion delves into the relevance of using various fuel sources like glucose, ketones, and fat for bodily functions, highlighting that depending on individual goals and diets, different approaches may be suitable.
Effects of Fasting Workouts and Ketogenic Diets on Energy Levels
The episode explores the impact of fasting workouts and ketogenic diets on energy levels and cognitive functions, with personal experiences shared regarding the benefits observed in terms of energy levels and mental clarity.
Insights on Supplements like Creatine and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The conversation transitions into a discussion on supplements like creatine and omega-3 fatty acids, emphasizing their roles in ATP regeneration, improving cell energy metabolism, brain health, and heart health.
Critical Analysis of Popular Wellness Protocols and Influencer Practices
Towards the end, the podcast critiques popular wellness protocols and influencer practices, scrutinizing the marketing strategies, high-priced products, and potentially misleading health claims that permeate social media platforms.
The Importance of Deep Sleep for Brain Health
Deep sleep plays a crucial role in brain health by allowing for the release of growth hormone and testosterone, promoting protein synthesis and muscle regeneration. Additionally, deep sleep activates the glymphatic system, a brain waste removal system that eliminates toxins like amyloid beta, associated with Alzheimer's disease. Consistently achieving deep sleep helps prevent the buildup of harmful substances in the brain, emphasizing the link between quality sleep and cognitive well-being.
Impacts of Alcohol Consumption on Brain Health and Hormone Levels
Alcohol consumption, specifically the breakdown of ethanol into acetyl aldehyde, poses a risk of cell damage in the brain, contributing to issues like brain cell destruction and cognitive impairment. Studies have shown that moderate alcohol intake can harm brain matter and disrupt information processing speed. Moreover, alcohol consumption increases the risk of hormonal imbalance, impacting hormone synthesis and potentially leading to fertility and cognitive health challenges.
Louisa Nicola is a neurophysiologist, CEO of NeuroAthletics, & host of the Neuro Experience podcast. SPONSORS https://ver.so/danny - Use code DANNY to save 15% on your first order. https://betterhelp.com/dannyjones - Get 10% off your first month. EPISODE LINKS https://www.youtube.com/@LouisaNicola https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_ https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ FOLLOW DANNY JONES https://www.instagram.com/dannyjones https://twitter.com/jonesdanny OUTLINE 00:00 - Australia 03:21 - Neurophysiology 06:01 - Brain health 07:48 - Geographical differences with alzheimer's 09:43 - How alzheimer's disease appears 13:56 - Optimizing the brain to be faster 14:56 - How super athletes use neurophysiology 20:49 - Working with NBA & MLB athletes 25:09 - The correct way to use a cold plunge 30:24 - Aerobic affects on the brain 34:25 - BDNF & reversing brain age 42:02 - Effects of weight lifting on the brain 44:16 - Myokine affects on the brain 47:44 - V02 Max 51:01 - How muscle mass affects health 54:04 - Carbs vs protein vs sugar before workouts 01:01:15 - Mucoid plaques 01:04:12 - Cholesterol 01:14:03 - Sleep 01:23:40 - Creatine monohydrate 01:28:49 - Omega-3 fatty acids 01:32:52 - Nicotine 01:42:51 - Charlatans & fake gurus 01:46:56 - Gary Brecka 01:54:57 - Deep sleep 01:57:58 - Alcohol 02:00:14 - Testosterone 02:05:40 - Sports Concussion affect on the brain 02:12:34 - Sauna
