Today’s guest is Dr. Tommy Wood. Tommy is a neuroscientist who has coached world class athletes in a dozen sports. He received his undergraduate degree in biochemistry from the University of Cambridge and his medical degree from the University of Oxford, and he also has his PhD in physiology and neuroscience. Tommy is currently a Research Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Washington, where his research interests include identifying modifiable factors that contribute to brain health and cognitive function across the lifespan and more. Today we discuss: what causes cognitive decline and what you can do to reduce your risk of Dementia/Alzheimer’s, which physical activities and dietary patterns are best for improving cognitive function and limiting cognitive decline, why dancing and certain activities are so powerful for stimulating the brain, how to reverse chronic stress and cognitive impairment, the controllable risk factors for Dementia/Alzheimer’s and much more.

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What to Listen For:

00:00 Intro
1:34 What is cognitive decline?
6:41 How to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s
9:48 How to use nutrition to improve cognitive function
12:42 Nutrients that are necessary for brain health
15:00 Muscle mass mitigates cognitive decline
18:47 Why is strength training beneficial for the brain?
22:37 What types of physical activities improve cognitive function the most?
27:13 Why is dancing so beneficial for the brain?
29:22 When does learning a new skill become a habit?
31:12 Why retiring early might be a bad idea
36:32 How does blood sugar impact cognitive function?
40:09 How to reverse chronic stress
44:47 Preventing Alzheimer’s (after you experience cognitive impairment)
47:22 Why screen time can be good for your brain

Episode Resources:

Tommy | Instagram, Podcast

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