The Brain Health Mission Podcast

Prof. Frank Murray, a renowned gastroenterologist advocating for alcohol-related liver disease awareness, and Catherine Paradis, a WHO alcohol research expert, delve into the serious impact of alcohol on brain health. They discuss the formation of the European Alcohol Health Alliance and the daunting statistics surrounding alcohol-related deaths. The duo debunks common myths about drinking, highlights effective policy strategies, and shares immediate benefits of reducing alcohol. Listeners gain practical tips for personal reduction and insight into the WHO's 'Redefine Alcohol' campaign.

Join Ole Petter Hjelle, a physician, researcher, and former marathon champion, as he explores the vital link between exercise and brain health. He shares insights from his remarkable journey from athlete to neuroscientist and discusses how movement enhances memory and focus. Ole Petter explains the molecular benefits of exercise, like increased brain growth factors, and tackles the balance between intensity and adherence. He also offers practical tips for integrating activity into daily life, emphasizing enjoyable exercise and social engagement.

This episode explores brain health in the context of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)—a lifelong neurological disease affecting millions worldwide. Host Prof. Jana Midelfart-Hoff is joined by two MS experts—Natalia Szejko and Sanja Gluscevic to discuss what brain health means for people with MS, how to measure and improve it, and why this matters not only for individuals but for society as a whole. Learn more about the Brain Health Mission: https://www.ean.org/brain-health-mission

Welcome to the first episode of The Brain Health Mission Podcast with host Jana Midelfart-Hoff, consultant and professor in neurology from Bergen, Norway. In this episode, Jana is joined by two of Europe’s leading neurologists and brain scientists, Professor Paul Boon and Professor Barbara Casolla. Together, they explore what brain health really means, why it matters not only for individuals but also for society, and how you can protect and improve it. We discuss: • The definition of brain health beyond mental health • The importance of the brain and how it influences our daily lives • Common threats to brain health such as stress, sleep deprivation, and diet • How brain health changes with age and what you can do to maintain it • Fun facts about the brain that might surprise you • Practical, science-backed habits to boost your brain health, including sleep, nutrition, mental activity, exercise, and social connections Tune in for expert insights, practical advice, and engaging conversation about your most vital organ. In this debut episode, Jana Midelfart-Hoff welcomes Professors Paul Boon and Barbara Casolla to unpack the concept of brain health. They clarify the difference between brain and mental health, identify key risks to brain function, and highlight how brain health affects our quality of life and society at large. The episode also shares surprising brain facts and offers accessible tips listeners can use to support their brain health every day. It closes with a reminder that brain health is a public health priority and an invitation to subscribe and stay tuned for more.