Your Brain On

Music is one of the most powerful forces of all time for human connection, cognitive stimulation, and therapeutic introspection. We’ve seen music help Alzheimer’s patients find their voice, children with speech disorders unlock new ways to communicate with rhythm and melody, and communities express their identity through song. In this episode, we discuss: • The cognitive, psychological, and mental benefits of music • Why learning to play an instrument is one of the best things you can do for your brain • The power of music as a means of connecting with others • Therapeutic uses of music for patients living with neurodegenerative diseases • The neuroscience of how we process sounds and perceive music We’re absolutely thrilled to be speaking to THREE incredible experts on music and cognition today, discussing an element of the human experience that does so much for our brains without us even thinking about it. In this episode, we’re joined by: DR. ANI PATEL, PhD, a cognitive psychologist at Tufts University known for his research on music cognition and the neuroscience of music. DR. CHARLES LIMB, MD, a surgeon, professor of otolaryngology, and musician at University of California in San Francisco.  JONATHAN BISS, renowned pianist and author of the book ‘Unquiet’, which explores the intersection of music and mental health. This is... Your Brain On Music. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On...’ is supported by the NEURO World Retreat, taking place in San Diego, September 2–5 2025: https://neuroworldretreat.com/ ‘Your Brain On... Music’ • SEASON 4 • EPISODE 10 This is the Season 4 finale. We’ll be back in a few weeks with Season 5! ——— LINKS Dr. Ani Patel, PhD At Tufts University: https://as.tufts.edu/psychology/people/faculty/aniruddh-patel  The Sound Health Network: https://soundhealth.ucsf.edu/ Dr. Charles Limb, MD At UCSF: https://ohns.ucsf.edu/charles-limb  Dr. Limb’s TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/charles_limb_your_brain_on_improv Jonathan Biss Jonathan’s website: https://www.jonathanbiss.com/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathan_biss_official/ Jonathan’s book, ‘Unquiet’: https://www.jonathanbiss.com/projects/unquiet  ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Instagram: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com More info and episodes: TheBrainDocs.com/Podcast

Supplements have become a hundred-billion dollar industry. But can they really boost your brain health in the ways they claim? They’re everywhere: shelves and shelves of pills and powders promising everything from  improved immunity, boosted energy, and faster weight loss to better sleep, happier moods, and enhanced sexual wellness. Social media influencers won’t stop talking about them, and they seem to appear in TV commercials every five minutes. And yet... the evidence supporting most of the claims these supplements make is next-to-nought. So what’s the truth? In ‘Your Brain On... Supplements’, we discuss: The differences between supplements and medication Why supplements are so loosely regulated The most popular supplements, and the lack of evidence supporting their purported benefits Identifying between the placebo effect and real effects Some supplements with actual evidence-based potential The psychology behind why we all feel compelled to try supplements Tips for navigating supplement claims we see on social media Joining us for this episode is Dr. Adrian Chavez a nutrition researcher, educator, and consultant. He has a PhD in Nutrition and Health Promotion where he conducted research developing and delivering lifestyle interventions in community settings for improving cardiovascular and metabolic health. After graduating he opened up a private practice and has worked with hundreds of clients helping people to lose weight and improve a variety of health problems with science-based nutrition strategies. He is the host of The Nutrition Science Podcast, a top-rated nutrition podcast that provides bite-sized episodes covering important topics in nutrition. This is... Your Brain On Supplements. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On...’ is supported by the NEURO World Retreat, taking place in San Diego, September 2–5 2025: https://neuroworldretreat.com/ ‘Your Brain On... Supplements’ • SEASON 4 • EPISODE 9 ——— LINKS Dr. Adrian Chavez on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.adrian.chavez Dr. Adrian Chavez’s website: https://www.dradrianchavez.com/ Dr. Adrian Chavez’s Podcast: https://www.thenutritionsciencepodcast.com/ ——— SELECTED CITATIONS Dietary Supplement Studies  Supplements adulterated with drugs: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35285963/  Prohibited contaminants in dietary supplements: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5753965/  Dietary Supplement Fraud: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33412717/  Unapproved Ingredients: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30646238/  Ashwagandha  Ashwagandha on Physical Performance https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8006238/ Ashwagandha on sleep https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34559859/  Ashwagandha on stress https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017529/  Creatine  Creatine on Memory https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35984306/ ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: NEUROacademy.com Instagram: @thebraindocs Website: TheBrainDocs.com More info and episodes: TheBrainDocs.com/Podcast

Traumatic Brain Injury is a major cause of death, disability, and cognitive decline. Thankfully, evolving research is helping us protect our heads and lessen the long-term impacts of TBIs. In this episode of ‘Your Brain On...’ we discuss: • The effects and symptoms of TBI, from mild concussions to more severe head injuries • What actually happens to your brain when you sustain a TBI • The links between TBI and neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairment • The prevalence of TBI in military personnel and sportspeople, and how we’re improving protective technologies • Steps to take after experiencing concussions or head traumas • How brain-healthy preventative lifestyle habits can lessen the long-term impacts of TBI Our guest for this episode is Dr. David Brody, MD, PhD, Chief Science Officer/Chief Innovation Officer, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD. Dr. Brody is a pre-eminent researcher of traumatic brain injuries, particularly in military personnel who experience TBIs during combat.  This is... Your Brain On TBI. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists, and public health advocates Drs. Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On...’ is supported by the NEURO World Retreat, taking place in San Diego, September 2–5 2025: https://neuroworldretreat.com/ ‘Your Brain On... TBI’ • SEASON 4 • EPISODE 8  — LINKS David Brody, MD, PhD: https://www.usuhs.edu/profile/david-brody-md-phd  — FOLLOW US  Instagram: @thebraindocs  Website: TheBrainDocs.com More info and episodes: TheBrainDocs.com/Podcast

In this discussion, Richard Bazinet, a University of Toronto professor researching brain lipid metabolism, and Bill Harris, an omega-3 expert behind the Omega-3 Index, share insights on the significance of omega-3 fatty acids for brain health. They unpack the differences between omega-3 and omega-6, revealing how dietary sources are crucial since our bodies can’t produce these essential fats. The conversation also explores the risks of low intake and the importance of DHA at every life stage, while advocating for more comprehensive research on omega-3 benefits and metabolism.

Larry Rosen, a research psychologist specializing in tech's psychological impact, and Jean Twenge, an author known for her insights into youth mental health, dive into the social media landscape. They discuss the alarming effects of social media on brain health, addiction, and mental wellbeing, particularly for teens. Their conversation highlights the neurological tricks used by apps that keep users scrolling and offers practical strategies to foster a healthier digital relationship. Plus, they explore issues like doom-scrolling and the pervasive impact of headlines on sleep and anxiety.

Sophia Sherzai, a biomedical engineer, and Alex Sherzai, an AI specialist, join their neuroscientist parents for a festive discussion. They delve into life as a family of brain experts, share their ambitions for 2025, and navigate the complexities of holiday dynamics. Topics like the importance of emotional health, personal growth, and overcoming misconceptions about dopamine addiction take center stage. With humor and insights, they also reflect on cherished memories and the power of connection over consumerism during the holidays.

Matthew Taylor, a registered dietitian specializing in ketogenic diets, and Russell Swerdlow, a neurology professor focused on Alzheimer's research, delve into the intriguing world of ketogenic diets and brain health. They discuss the historical origins of the diet and its modern-day implications for cognitive function. Key insights include how ketogenic diets can serve as an alternative energy source for the brain, their potential benefits for Alzheimer's patients, and the impact of diet versus supplements on cognitive performance.

Ammar Al-Chalabi and Merit Cudkowicz, leading experts in ALS research, delve into the complexities of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. They discuss how ALS impacts the body and brain, highlighting genetic predispositions and emerging environmental risks. The duo explores breakthroughs in gene therapy that may reverse the disease's effects, alongside the role of lifestyle and multidisciplinary care in patient management. They also reflect on the Ice Bucket Challenge's transformative impact on ALS awareness and funding.

In this discussion, Dr. John Krystal, a Yale Psychiatry and Neuroscience Professor, and Dr. Gerard Sanacora, Director of the Yale Depression Research Program, dive into ketamine’s evolution from anesthetic to mental health treatment. They unveil its rapid antidepressant effects, mechanisms influencing neuroplasticity, and potential to combat neurodegenerative diseases. The conversation also highlights risks, individual response variability, and the critical need for careful dosing and monitoring in therapeutic settings.

In this lively discussion, guests Nicole Prause, a UCLA sexual behavior expert, and Rena Malik, a urogynecologist focused on women's sexual health, dive into the fascinating neurological processes behind attraction and desire. They tackle how age and significant life changes like menopause affect sexual desire. The complex debate around pornography and its impact on intimate relationships is explored. They also emphasize the importance of nutrition, exercise, and debunk myths associated with women’s sexual health, promoting open conversations free from stigma.