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A Mediterranean diet has been shown to protect the brain from aging and may even reverse cognitive decline. Exercise, particularly aerobic and strength training, improves executive function and helps grow new brain cells. Metformin, an AMPK activator, has been found to improve cognitive function and prevent dementia in studies on fish, mice, and humans. NAD boosters, such as NADH and NR, can increase NAD levels in the brain and have been shown to slow brain aging and improve cognitive function. Supplements like resveratrol and terrestilbine also have potential benefits.
Sirtuins, specifically SIRT1, play a crucial role in controlling brain aging. Studies have shown reduced levels of SIRT1 as we age, but activating these sirtuins can slow down brain aging. Sirtuins help maintain the integrity of DNA bundles and repair damaged cells, reducing the risk of cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer's. Metformin and NAD boosters can indirectly stimulate SIRT1 activity, providing potential benefits for brain health.
NAD levels decrease with age due to decreased production and increased degradation. Supplementing with NAD boosters like NADH and NR can help restore youthful NAD levels in the brain, mimicking the effects of exercise and a healthy diet. NAD supplementation has shown promise in slowing Alzheimer's disease progression, improving cognitive function, and potentially reversing cognitive decline. NADH and NR are safe and effective choices for supporting brain health and overall longevity.
Resveratrol, found in red wine, has been shown to activate the enzyme SIRT1, which controls genes and has various health benefits. Olive oil, another component of the Mediterranean diet, also directly activates SIRT1. These components mimic adversity and activate longevity pathways, promoting overall health and preventing diseases. It is important to include these components in the diet to reap their benefits.
A plant-based diet can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, B6, and B3. These deficiencies, especially in B12, can affect DNA methylation and accelerate aging, leading to various health issues. Concerns about blood vessel health and dementia are also highlighted. Adequate intake of these essential nutrients is crucial for maintaining brain health. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, obtained through fish or plant-based sources like flaxseeds and walnuts, play a vital role in brain structure and function. Sleep and exercise are also essential for brain health, as they affect the circadian rhythm, blood flow, and overall brain function.
In this episode of the Lifespan podcast, Dr. David Sinclair and co-host Matthew LaPlante dissect the topic of brain aging. They explore evidence suggesting that the brain ages more slowly than other parts of the body and highlight how cognitive function is impacted by aging. Different interventions aimed at preserving brain health are also discussed, including a plant-based diet, exercise, metformin, NAD boosters, and sufficient sleep.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/davidsinclair
Lifespan book: https://amzn.to/3sUqurT
Dr. David Sinclair Social:
Matthew LaPlante's Social:
To stay up to date with David's work to democratize biological age testing and insights, visit tallyhealth.com.
Timestamps:
(00:00:00) Introducing Episode Seven: Aging of the Brain
(00:04:39) Thanking the Sponsors
(00:07:38) Ex-differentiation as a Driver of Aging
(00:09:22) The Brain Ages Slowly
(00:14:17) Cognitive Function and Plasticity
(00:17:44) Three Longevity Pathways: mTOR, AMPK, and Sirtuins
(00:23:26) Plant-based Diets and B-vitamins
(00:28:32) Homocysteine, Plaque, and Vasculature
(00:32:35) Fatty Acids
(00:35:48) Physical Activity
(00:39:14) Metformin
(00:46:02) NAD Boosters
(00:50:33) Increasing Blood Flor
(00:53:20) Sleep
(00:58:02) Overall Message: Keep your Brain Healthy
(00:58:50) Next Week’s Episode and the Future of Medicine
(01:01:21) Options for Subscription for Support
For the full show notes, including the peer-reviewed studies, visit the Lifespan podcast website.
Please note that Lifespan with Dr. David Sinclair is distinct from Dr. Sinclair's teaching and research roles at Harvard Medical School. The information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Lifespan with Dr. David Sinclair podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed.
Special thanks to our research assistants, Adiv Johnson & Sarah Ryan.
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