Your Brain On

Dive into the buzz of coffee and its fascinating effects on the brain! Discover how caffeine can wake you up and boost concentration while potentially guarding against neurodegenerative diseases. Uncover the delicate balance of coffee’s benefits and risks, including addiction concerns and metabolism differences. Explore the rich history of coffee, from its roots in Ethiopia to its significant role in Sufi rituals and social gatherings. Plus, learn about the different types of coffee and their unique impacts on our health!

Dr. Lisa Schulman, a grief neurologist and author, along with Amber Jeffrey, a grief mentor and podcast host, dive deep into the intricate relationship between grief and brain health. They discuss how grief can alter neural function, likening it to emotional trauma. Creative outlets like journaling are highlighted as powerful coping mechanisms. The guests challenge the oversimplified five stages of grief, emphasizing community support and cultural perspectives in healing. Their conversation is a profound exploration of living with grief and finding joy amidst loss.

Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist and founder of Dementia Careblazers, and Dr. Helen Lavretsky, a Psychiatry Professor at UCLA, dive into the vital topic of caregiver well-being. They discuss the emotional toll caregiving takes, emphasizing the importance of self-care. Learn how lifestyle changes and meditation can offset stress, and hear about the need for community support and policy reforms. They also touch on emerging tech solutions, including robotics, that can ease the burden of caregivers.

Discover the transformative power of meditation on brain health and emotional well-being. Experts discuss how this ancient practice rewires the brain, enhances focus, and combats stress. Learn about the addictive nature of social media and how mindfulness can reclaim attention. Explore various meditation techniques and their proven benefits, even with just a few minutes a day. The conversation also emphasizes the need for human guidance in using meditation apps and the neurological impact of mindfulness on our daily lives.

Discover how leg strength goes beyond physical health, profoundly impacting brain function. Learn about the role of BDNF and neurochemical processes in enhancing cognitive abilities. Explore strategies for all ages to improve leg strength, emphasizing simple exercises and the importance of nutrition. Understand the link between exercise frequency, intensity, and overall brain health. Finally, hear expert insights on integrating movement into daily routines and the crucial relationship between recovery and effective training.

Dive into the fascinating world of marijuana's impact on the brain and body. Discover the distinct effects of THC and CBD, and learn how the endocannabinoid system influences mood and pain perception. Hear a compelling case of a woman who couldn't feel pain due to a genetic mutation. Uncover the potential benefits of marijuana, such as pain management and mental health support, while also addressing significant risks like addiction and memory disorders. It's a deep exploration of cannabis's evolving role in our lives.

Discover the 200-year journey of Parkinson’s disease, from 18th-century discoveries to modern genetic insights. Explore the surprising role of the industrial revolution in environmental triggers. Understand the complex interplay of motor and non-motor symptoms, such as tremors and depression. Learn how unique detection methods, like olfactory recognition, can aid diagnosis. Delve into lifestyle strategies for prevention and management, and explore exciting advancements in research, including the potential of AI to transform treatment.

Discover the history, benefits, and future of Ozempic, a diabetes drug turned weight loss aid. Explore GLP-1 agonists' impact on appetite, weight loss, and cardiovascular health. Unpack the challenges of supply chains and medication misinformation. Delve into how weight loss drugs affect brain receptors and behaviors. Learn about using GLP-1 agonists for addiction treatment. Reflect on Season Two and get excited for Season Three's brain health-focused content.

Discover how retirement can impact cognitive function and brain health, with insights on building cognitive reserve. Explore international variations in retirement transitions, the role of education in shaping cognitive health, and the influence of Artificial Intelligence on job sectors. Hear from experts on the future of neuroscience research in retirement.

Exploring introversion in the brain, genetic vs learned traits, predicting introversion in infants, debunking myths, dopamine's role, self-identification for introverts, and improving energy management.