Dr. Tommy Wood On How to Prevent Cognitive Decline and Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer's Disease

May 8, 2023

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. 

Thanks to today’s sponsor:

 

Just Thrive:

 

https://justthrivehealth.com/

 

Use Promo code "Doug" at checkout to receive 20% off your order

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

 

 

⚠ WELLNESS DISCLAIMER ⚠

Please be advised; the topics related to mental health in my content are for informational, discussion, and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your current condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard from your favorite creator, on social media, or shared within content you’ve consumed.

If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

If you do not have a health professional who is able to assist you, use these resources to find help:

Emergency Medical Services—911

If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by calling 911, available 24 hours a day.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org. 

SAMHSA addiction and mental health treatment Referral Helpline, 1-877-SAMHSA7 (1-877-726-4727) and https://www.samhsa.gov