Registered dietitian and performance coach, Sean Casey, joins the show again to discuss strategies for enhancing cognitive abilities. From battling ADHD without medication to harnessing the power of a diet that fuels your brain, there are a ton of takeaways for anyone hungry to optimize their mental prowess. Sean explains not just how to maintain a competitive edge, but also how to nourish your brain for peak performance, touching on everything from neurotransmitter efficiency to the work of the glymphatic system during sleep.

Sean gives simple lifestyle choices that benefit brain function, including exercise and light exposure. He also introduces the potential of nootropic supplements like citicoline, alpha-GPC, and huperzine A, and we examine how these substances might enhance your cognitive functions. We also navigate the intricate web of emerging research, highlighting the importance of choosing the right supplements and unraveling the complex relationship between gut health, brain health, and overall well-being.

Lastly, our conversation turns to supplements that can give you an edge in focus and cognitive performance. Sean discusses the synergistic effects of caffeine and theanine, the potential of nootropic supplements like lion's mane mushrooms, and the protective effects of creatine. By the end of the episode, you'll be equipped with a toolkit of strategies to elevate your mental game, whether you're an athlete, executive, or simply someone passionate about brain health!

Time Stamps:

[4:08] Why brain and mental performance has become a sought-after quality

[7:14] Physiological ways we can impact our brain's functioning

[16:47] The role of sleep in cognitive performance and how to improve sleep quality

[25:12] How physical activity improves brain function and cognitive performance

[31:00] Nutrition strategies to support brain function

[37:12] Supplementation to enhance cognitive performance

[50:19] The future of nootropic supplementation

[57:30] The impact of inflammation and gut health on brain health

Sean Casey is a member of the Evolve Wellness science team with Hometown Pharmacy of Wisconsin, which is a group of 70 independent pharmacies in the state of Wisconsin dedicated to proactive healthcare. In this role, Sean is responsible for evaluating dietary supplements, creating new supplement formulations, community education, and supporting overall proactive health services within the organization. He is also the Director of Applied Human Performance for the Sports Pharmacy Network. Sean has traveled the world helping clients maximize health, wellness, and athletic performance. His clients include everyone from amateur athletes to elite professionals, including Olympic gold medalist, Viktor Axelsen.

You can follow Sean on Instagram.

To stay up to date on episodes and guests, follow The Performance Connection Podcast on Instagram!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Minnesota Vikings offensive tendencies seem counterproductive