Happy & Healthy with Amy

Alzheimer’s Prevention: 5 Key Principles for Brain Health Optimization

Amy Lang Season 1 Episode 275

Think of your genes like a house full of light switches - while you can't change the wiring, your daily choices control which switches are on or off. This fascinating field of epigenetics shows us that genes aren't destiny, even with Alzheimer's.

In this final episode of our three-part series, we explore groundbreaking research showing that nearly half of all dementia cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes.

I'll share the 14 modifiable risk factors identified by the Lancet Commission and break down 5 key principles for optimizing your brain health that combine the best of Western and Eastern medicine.

Note: Alzheimer’s prevention isn’t just about avoiding disease—it’s about boosting your brain power for peak performance today and for years to come. By making small changes now, you can increase your cognitive function, protect your brain health, and keep your mind sharp.

What to Listen For:

  • [02:18] - The difference between true prevention and symptom management
  • [05:48] - How epigenetics proves that your genes don’t determine your fate
  • [06:44] - The 14 risk factors for dementia—how many can you modify?
  • [09:11] - The surprising connection between cholesterol, statins, and insulin resistance
  • [10:59] - The impact of estrogen loss on women’s brain health
  • [13:40] - How lifestyle changes can increase cognitive function by up to 150%
  • [14:38] - Why your brain’s energy metabolism is the key to preventing Alzheimer’s
  • [16:54] - Why treating symptoms isn’t enough—we need to go upstream
  • [17:45] - The “use it or lose it” principle and why cognitive stimulation matters
  • [19:42] - The work of top brain health pioneers, including Dale Bredesen and Dr. Daniel Amen

Whether you have a family history of Alzheimer's or simply want to stay sharp as you age, you'll discover practical strategies you can start using today to protect your brain for decades to come.

Your next steps: 

✔️ Listen to the full episode to learn about the 5 key principles for brain health.
✔️ Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode.
✔️ Share this episode with a friend or family member who wants to stay sharp!


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