The Adversity Advantage with Doug Bopst How to Slow Cognitive Decline, Sharpen Your Mind & Prevent Dementia | Dr. Tommy Wood
Nov 24, 2025
Dr. Tommy Wood is a neuroscientist and physician focused on brain health, with experience coaching elite athletes. He dives into how daily habits can hasten cognitive decline and emphasizes the importance of metabolic health for brain aging. Tommy discusses the role of lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress management, and provides insights on recognizing early signs of cognitive issues. He shares practical strategies to enhance brain function, including complex skill learning and the benefits of aerobic and resistance training.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Belief Shapes Brain Aging
- Believing decline is inevitable makes it so by reducing effort and engagement.
- Tommy Wood calls this stereotype embodiment and says changing the narrative preserves brain function.
When Decline Typically Starts
- Cognitive decline begins in your 20s on average but varies by individual education and engagement.
- 'Super agers' show many people can maintain function into later decades if they stay stimulated.
Move One Lever First
- Start with one change you can sustain because risk factors interconnect and compound.
- Improving one area (e.g., exercise) often benefits sleep, diet, and metabolic markers simultaneously.