Use it or Lose it: Exploring Cognitive Reserve and the Nun Study
Release Date: 03/21/2023
Brain Talks: Neuro-acupuncture for Migraine Relief with Jennifer Midlane
The Well Nurtured Brain
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pamela welcomes Jennifer Midlane, a Neuro-acupuncturist specializing in neurological conditions. Jennifer shares her personal journey of recovery from a brain injury and how it led her to pursue neuroacupuncture—a unique blend of traditional Chinese medicine and modern neurological insights. Together, they explore the fascinating role of acupuncture in migraine treatment, discussing research, including brain imaging studies and a landmark Cochrane review on its effectiveness. They also dive into the challenges of studying acupuncture, its...
info_outline
Brain Talks: Optimizing Cognitive Performance through Vision with Dr. McCrodan
The Well Nurtured Brain
In this eye-opening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pam welcomes Dr. Cameron McCrodan, an optometrist and leading expert in neurovisual performance. Together, they explore how our eyes and brain work in tandem - not just to see clearly, but influencing everything from dizziness and migraines to reading, focus, and mental stamina. Dr. McCrodan explains why traditional eye exams often miss crucial elements of visual function, how modern life places unnatural demands on our vision, and how we can improve cognitive performance and overall well-being through our vision care. About Dr....
info_outline
Brain Talks: The Complexities of Chronic Pain with Aaron Jones, MPT
The Well Nurtured Brain
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain we are joined by Aaron Jones to discuss the intricate world of chronic pain, exploring how it affects every facet of life—from physical limitations to emotional resilience. We take a closer look at the often-overlooked connection between chronic pain and sleep disruptions, shedding light on the challenges of getting restorative rest when pain feels relentless. Our discussion also features a deep dive into Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a complex and often misunderstood condition that adds unique layers to the experience of chronic pain. Aaron is...
info_outline
System Malfunction: Navigating the Hidden Impact of Dysautonomia
The Well Nurtured Brain
Join Dr. Pamela Hutchison, in our first official episode of season 2. In this episode she uncovers the mysterious world of dysautonomia and its connection to long COVID and POTS. In this enlightening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Hutchison breaks down the complexities of the autonomic nervous system going awry, revealing how its dysfunction can lead to a wide range of challenging symptoms. From understanding the basics of blood pressure regulation to exploring examples of those affected, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the lingering effects of long...
info_outline
The Opportunities in Struggle: A Sneak Peek at Season 2
The Well Nurtured Brain
Welcome back to The Well Nurtured Brain! In this exciting Season 2 premiere, Dr. Pamela Hutchison, a seasoned naturopathic doctor with 25 years of experience, returns to share updates and insights into brain, mental, and neurological health. After a challenging year, Dr. Pam reflects on the opportunities that can arise from life's struggles and previews an enriching lineup of topics and guest experts. From demystifying dysautonomia and exploring exercise's impact on multiple sclerosis to uncovering the science behind brain health supplements, this season promises valuable content for...
info_outline
Brain Talks: Navigating Blood Sugar with Dr. Jaime
The Well Nurtured Brain
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison sits down with Dr. Jaime de Melo, a fellow naturopathic doctor and the co-founder of Evolve Medical, to discuss the intricate world of blood sugar regulation and its profound impact on our brain health. From the basics of insulin resistance to the far-reaching consequences of blood sugar dysregulation, Dr. Jaime shares invaluable insights and practical advice on maintaining balance, and how this has far reaching effects on brain health over time. Whether you're navigating diabetes, seeking preventive measures, or...
info_outline
Inflammatory Insights: Discussing the possible correlation between inflammation and depression
The Well Nurtured Brain
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, join Dr. Pamela Hutchison as she geeks out over the intriguing link between inflammation and depression. While discussing the current research, she simplifies the science for easy understanding. Expect to revisit this compelling topic in future episodes as more research emerges. Meanwhile, savor the valuable insights shared in this episode – there are some truly enlightening nuggets waiting for you. Connect with Dr. Pam: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram:...
info_outline
The Leafy Truth: Exploring the Efficacy of Greens Powder
The Well Nurtured Brain
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison ND will compare greens powders to their natural, leafy counterparts. Join Dr. Pamela as she explores the pros and cons of both options. Are greens powders truly the ultimate solution for those on-the-go or in need of an extra boost of nutrients, or can nothing replace the goodness of whole, leafy greens? Connect with me: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/ Facebook:...
info_outline
Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines Part 2
The Well Nurtured Brain
Welcome to the conclusion of Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines on the Well Nurtured Brain. In our first part of this two part series we discussed the true nature of migraines, their impact on those who suffer from them, and why they're so much more than just a headache. In this anticipated final instalment Dr. Pamela Hutchison will guide us through a number of studies that dissect the effectiveness of well known approaches to reducing the pain, frequency and duration of migraines. Some of the results may surprise you! Connect with me: ...
info_outline
Brain Talks: Exploring Persistent Pain with Dr. Richard McIlmoyle
The Well Nurtured Brain
In this episode of The Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison is joined by Dr. Richard McIlmoyle, a chiropractor from Victoria with more than two decades of expertise. Together, they discuss the nature of pain and its management, as Dr. Richard shares his perspective on pain as an embodied phenomena. About Dr. Richard McIlmoyle: Dr Richard McIlmoyle is a chiropractor with over 24 years of experience. He utilizes the most current science regarding pain and biomechanics to guide his treatment, using multiple manual therapies to promote changes with his patients. His goal...
info_outlineIn this episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pamela Hutchison ND explores the concept of cognitive reserve - the brain's thinking capacity, which is based on the number and health of connections between the neurons in the brain.
Dr. Hutchison discusses how cognitive reserve is built and maintained, and shares insights from the Nun Study, a cohort of almost 700 Catholic nuns, to demonstrate how cognitive reserve can help people maintain their brain health as they age.
We’ll discuss:
-
Use it or Lose it: The brain repairs and maintains the pathways, neurons, and systems that we use.
-
Diversity of Use: The more diversity of use, the more pathways our brain has to perform a task.
-
Nun Study Insights: How the study showed that higher education is correlated to increased cognitive reserve
-
The intriguing correlation of one specific measurement, made from the Nun’s teenage personal biographies and their later cognitive health.
Resources:
Snowdon DA; Nun Study. Healthy aging and dementia: findings from the Nun Study. Ann Intern Med. 2003 Sep 2;139(5 Pt 2):450-4. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-139-5_part_2-200309021-00014. PMID: 12965975.
Iacono D, Zandi P, Gross M, et al. APOε2 and education in cognitively normal older subjects with high levels of AD pathology at autopsy: findings from the Nun Study. Oncotarget. 2015;6(16):14082-14091. doi:10.18632/oncotarget.4118 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4546453/
Snowdon DA, Kemper SJ, Mortimer JA, Greiner LH, Wekstein DR, Markesbery WR. Linguistic ability in early life and cognitive function and Alzheimer's disease in late life. Findings from the Nun Study. JAMA. 1996;275(7):528-532. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8606473/
Farias ST, Chand V, Bonnici L, et al. Idea density measured in late life predicts subsequent cognitive trajectories: implications for the measurement of cognitive reserve. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci. 2012;67(6):677-686. doi:10.1093/geronb/gbr162 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3478727/
Idea density definition from here: https://research-management.mq.edu.au/ws/portalfiles/portal/109328352/109153764.pdf
Blog post: NATHANIEL WOODWARD,Educator, Applied Statistician, and Learning Scientist, University of Texas at Austin, Ph.D. in Educational Psychology (Learning Sciences) https://nathanielwoodward.com/post/idea-density-or-teenage-essays-predict-old-age-alzheimers/
Sumowski, J. F., Rocca, M. A., Leavitt, V. M., Riccitelli, G., Comi, G., DeLuca, J., & Filippi, M. (2013). Brain reserve and cognitive reserve in multiple sclerosis: what you've got and how you use it. Neurology, 80(24), 2186–2193. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0b013e318296e98b https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23667062/
David Snowdon’s book: “Aging with Grace: What the Nun Study Teaches Us About Leading Longer, Healthier, and More Meaningful Lives” https://www.amazon.ca/Aging-Grace-Teaches-Healthier-Meaningful/dp/0553380923
Connect with me:
Dr. Pam's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd
The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com
Email: [email protected]
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating!