Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard Richard Isaacson (on Alzheimer’s prevention)
Aug 8, 2024
Dr. Richard Isaacson, a renowned neurologist specializing in Alzheimer's prevention, shares insightful perspectives on brain health and disease. He emphasizes the importance of preventative medicine and how diet impacts cognitive function, particularly through carbohydrate intake. Richard reveals the role of genetics in Alzheimer's risk and advocates for personalized healthcare approaches. The conversation also highlights innovative ideas like home-testing for brain health and lifestyle modifications to empower individuals in their fight against dementia.
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Omega‑3s Sparked Preventive Focus
- Isaacson began giving omega‑3s to clinic patients and tracked cholesterol and cognition himself.
- That clinical observation pushed him toward preventive, personalized approaches in brain health.
Alzheimer’s As End‑Organ Metabolic Damage
- Alzheimer’s often reflects downstream end‑organ damage from systemic metabolic issues rather than a purely isolated brain disease.
- Genetics modulate vulnerability, so identical exposures produce different outcomes across people.
Use N‑of‑1 Trials For Personal Nutrition Changes
- Run an N‑of‑1 experiment when changing major diet or lifestyle choices and collect objective before/after data.
- Measure blood markers, body composition, and simple cognitive tests to judge effect.