Your Brain On

A podcast about the neuroscience of everything. From neurologists, researchers, and public health advocates Drs. Ayesha and Dean Sherzai, explore every aspect of our world through a neuroscientific lens, with science-based stories, interviews, anecdotes, and brain health facts. Equip yourself with neurologically sound answers to life’s everyday health questions and learn the essentials of brain health and optimization, one topic at a time.

Your Brain On... (Sherzai Family Holiday Special) 12/25/2024

Your Brain On... Ketogenic Diets 12/18/2024

Your Brain On... Ketogenic Diets High in fats and low in carbs, ketogenic diets were originally developed in the 1920s to treat children with epilepsy. Now, they’ve gained popularity for weight loss, and even improved cognitive function. But how much truth is there in the purported brain health benefits we see on social media? In this episode of ‘Your Brain On...’, we separate the facts from the fads, and discuss: • What one might eat on a typical ketogenic diet • How ketogenic diets affect brain metabolism • The different ways your brain uses sources of energy — glucose vs. ketones • The latest data on ketogenic diet in Alzheimer’s disease patients • What we know about how ketogenic diets and treatment of Alzheimer’s • The outcome differences between ketogenic diets and ketone supplements in Alzheimer’s • Other evidence-based nutritional approaches for brain health For this episode, we welcome two world-renowned professionals in the field of nutrition and neuroscience: DR. MATTHEW TAYLOR, PhD, RD, Assistant Professor, Dietetics and Nutrition, Kansas University Medical Center DR. RUSSELL SWERDLOW, MD, Gene and Marge Sweeney Professor of Neurology; Director, Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Kansas University Medical Center This is... Your Brain On Ketogenic Diets. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... Ketogenic Diets’ • SEASON 4 • EPISODE 4 FOLLOW US Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: REFERENCES 1. Wheless, James W. "History of the ketogenic diet." Epilepsia 49 (2008): 3-5. 2. Krolak-Salmon, Pierre, Russell H. Swerdlow, Thibault Mastain, Catherine Dive-Pouletty, Nick Pooley, and Masoumeh Kisomi. "Efficacy and Safety of Exogenous Ketones in People with Mild Neurocognitive Disorder and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Literature Review." Nutrition Reviews (2024): nuae098. 3. Taylor, Matthew K., Debra K. Sullivan, Jonathan D. Mahnken, Jeffrey M. Burns, and Russell H. Swerdlow. "Feasibility and efficacy data from a ketogenic diet intervention in Alzheimer's disease." Alzheimer's & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions 4 (2018): 28-36. 4. Taylor, Matthew K., Russell H. Swerdlow, and Debra K. Sullivan. "Dietary neuroketotherapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease: an evidence update and the potential role for diet quality." Nutrients 11, no. 8 (2019): 1910. 5. Koppel, Scott J., and Russell H. Swerdlow. "Neuroketotherapeutics: a modern review of a century-old therapy." Neurochemistry international 117 (2018): 114-125. 6. O'Neill, Blair, and Paolo Raggi. "The ketogenic diet: Pros and cons." Atherosclerosis 292 (2020): 119-126. 7. Crosby, Lee, Brenda Davis, Shivam Joshi, Meghan Jardine, Jennifer Paul, Maggie Neola, and Neal D. Barnard. "Ketogenic diets and chronic disease: weighing the benefits against the risks." Frontiers in nutrition 8 (2021): 702802. /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/34498890

Your Brain On... ALS 12/11/2024

Your Brain On... ALS ALS, a nervous system disease, ruled the headlines in the summer of 2014 thanks to the viral Ice Bucket Challenge. How has our knowledge of the disorder evolved a decade later? Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ‘Lou Gehrig's disease’ (named after the iconic baseball player), is a progressive neurological disorder which breaks down a person’s motor neurons. The main symptoms are muscle weakness and impaired physical function — mild, at first, but in the latter stages of the disease’s progression, essential processes like breathing begin to fail. Most individuals face a life expectancy of two to five years. A small percentage live five to ten years. And an even tinier group survive beyond a decade. Most famously, renowned physicist Stephen Hawking survived more than 50 years past his diagnosis, in part due to the intensive care he was able to afford. In this episode of the ‘Your Brain On...’ podcast, we discuss: • What ALS is, and how it affects the brain and the body • The onset and progression of ALS, from the earliest symptoms to the end-stage impacts • How ALS patients are diagnosed, treated, and cared for • Likely causes of ALS, including genetic predispositions and potential environmental risk factors • How new technologies are rapidly accelerating our understanding of ALS, especially in genetics Joining us for this installment of the show are two world-class experts on the disease: • Professor Ammar Al-Chalabi PhD, Professor of Neurology and Complex Disease Genetics at the Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute at King's College. • Merit Cudkowicz, Director of the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS at Massachusetts General Hospital. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... ALS’ • SEASON 4 • EPISODE 3 ——— LINKS PROFESSOR AMMAR AL-CHALABI at King’s College: at Motor Neurone Disease Disease Association: Project MinE: MERIT CUDKOWICZ at Massachusetts General Hospital: at Harvard University: ——— ANNOUNCING: NEURO WORLD RETREAT 2025 We’re so excited to share something very close to our hearts, which we’ve been working on over the past few months: our first ever brain health retreat! You’re warmly invited to join us in San Diego, California for the inaugural NEURO World Retreat 2025, taking place September 2–5, 2025 at the breathtaking Paradise Point Resort. For more information, and to book, visit: ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: ——— References: Brown, Robert H., and Ammar Al-Chalabi. "Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis." New England Journal of Medicine 377.2 (2017): 162-172. Benatar, Michael, et al. "A roadmap to ALS prevention: strategies and priorities." Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry 94.5 (2023): 399-402. Voigtlaender, Sebastian, et al. "Artificial intelligence in neurology: opportunities, challenges, and policy implications." Journal of Neurology 271.5 (2024): 2258-2273. Zinman, Lorne, and Merit Cudkowicz. "Emerging targets and treatments in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis." The Lancet Neurology 10.5 (2011): 481-490. Raghav, Yogindra, et al. "Identification of gene fusions associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis." Muscle & Nerve 69.4 (2024): 477-489. Su, Feng-Chiao, et al. "Association of environmental toxins with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis." JAMA neurology 73.7 (2016): 803-811. Talbott, Evelyn O., et al. "Case-control study of environmental toxins and risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis involving the national ALS registry." Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration (2024): 1-10. /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/34391445

Your Brain On... Ketamine 12/04/2024

Your Brain On... Sex 11/20/2024

Your Brain On... Protein 10/17/2024

Your Brain On... Protein Protein — how much do we need? What’s the healthiest way to consume it? Can we get enough from plant-based diets? Until recent decades, protein hasn’t been quite as prominent in public health discussions as sugar and fats. However, with longer lifespans emphasizing the importance of protein for long-term health, and growing confusion around the quality and quantity of protein needed, it has become a highly debated macronutrient. In ‘Your Brain On… Protein’, we explore: • The brain health benefits (and general health benefits) of protein • Plant-based protein vs. meat protein, and supplements like protein powders • How much protein we really need to eat every day • Ways we can all introduce more protein into our diets • Why ‘health’ influencers are suddenly recommending unusually high levels of protein consumption • How we measure the quality of proteins, including digestibility and absorption In this episode, we’re joined by two fantastic nutrition experts: DR. MATTHEW NAGRA, nutritionist and science communicator. DR. ALAN FLANAGAN, esteemed nutrition scientist (previously featured in ‘Your Brain On… Sugar’ and ‘Your Brain On… Fats’ ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: https://brainhealthinstitute.com/ ‘Your Brain On... Protein’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 10 (SEASON 3 FINALE!) ——— LINKS: Dr. Matt Nagra Instagram: Website: Dr. Alan Flanagan Alan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenutritionaladvocate Alinea Nutrition: ——— REFERENCES: Dietary Patterns and Risk of Dementia: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies. Dietary fat composition and dementia risk. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.03.038 Dietary Protein and Amino Acids in Vegetarian Diets—A Review. Animal vs Plant-Based Meat: A Hearty Debate. High-Protein Plant-Based Diet Versus a Protein-Matched Omnivorous Diet to Support Resistance Training Adaptations: A Comparison Between Habitual Vegans and Omnivores. Vegan and Omnivorous High Protein Diets Support Comparable Daily Myofibrillar Protein Synthesis Rates and Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy in Young Adults. Digestibility issues of vegetable versus animal proteins: protein and amino acid requirements--functional aspects. Soy and Isoflavone Consumption and Multiple Health Outcomes: Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Observational Studies and Randomized Trials in Humans. No Difference Between the Effects of Supplementing With Soy Protein Versus Animal Protein on Gains in Muscle Mass and Strength in Response to Resistance Exercise. Neither soy nor isoflavone intake affects male reproductive hormones: An expanded and updated meta-analysis of clinical studies. The health effects of soy: A reference guide for health professionals. The Effect of Plant-Based Protein Ingestion on Athletic Ability in Healthy People—A Bayesian Meta-Analysis with Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Effects of high-quality protein supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with metabolic diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Vegan and Omnivorous High Protein Diets Support Comparable Daily Myofibrillar Protein Synthesis Rates and Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy in Young Adults. /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/33496442

Your Brain On... Misinformation 10/09/2024

Your Brain On... Misinformation The digital age has made it easier than ever to access health information, but how can we know which sources to trust? Social media is saturated with misinformation. Some of it is inadvertent — many bold pseudoscientific claims seem very convincing, and anyone could be forgiven for sharing it with the best intentions. But, a more deliberate manipulation of scientific information has become commonplace, often used to push certain narratives or turn a profit. Combating this misinformation machine can feel impossible. So, we assembled five experts from different corners of the science communication community to help equip you for the fight: Dr. David L. Katz, MD, MPH, a renowned figure in the field of preventive medicine, public health, and nutrition. (Website: ) Steven Novella MD, clinical neurologist and associate professor at Yale University School of Medicine, a host of The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe podcast, and a founder of the New England Skeptical Society. (Website: ) Dr. Jessica Steier PhD, public health scientist and host of the wildly popular Unbiased Science podcast. (Instagram: ) Dr. Jonathan Stea PhD, clinical psychologist and author of the book ‘Mind the Science’. (Instagram: / Website: ) Dr. Idrees Mughal, AKA ‘Dr. Idz’, one of the most popular online misinformation-debunking social media icons. (TikTok: / Website: ) Together, we discuss: • The telltale signs of pseudoscientific messaging. • Where misinformation comes from, and why it often spreads faster than evidence-based facts. • Why we can be so susceptible to believing misinformation. • Who profits by poisoning the science communication space. • How we can improve our scientific literacy and avoid echo chambers. • Ways academics can improve their public health communication. • ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... Misinformation’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 9 /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/33387437

Your Brain On: A Brain Health Revolution Summit Special 10/02/2024

Your Brain On: A Brain Health Revolution Summit Special 20 incredible conversations with leading scientists, in one hour. We’re excited to present this special installment of Your Brain On, featuring highlights from some of the speakers talking at our first ever Brain Health Revolution Summit. Our first summit, running September 30 through October 6 2024, features seven days of hour-long discussions with the scientists who are actually conducting the studies, publishing the papers, and pushing public health policy reforms that are shaping our world. No matter when you’re listening to this episode, visit for more information about the summit — be it our first 2024 edition, or a future installment! Day 1: The Brain Health Landscape: From Insights to Action Day 2: Mental Health Matters and Heart Health for a Stronger Brain Day 3: Women’s Brain Health: Hormones, Longevity, and Vitality Day 4: Emerging Challenges in Brain Health Day 5: Fuel for Thought: Nutrition, the Gut, and the Brain Day 6: Move, Breathe, Thrive: Exercise and Stress Management Day 7: Recharge and Optimize: Sleep and Cognitive Performance This special episode includes excerpts of our conversations with: Rachel Dolhun, MD Michael Okun, MD Charles DeCarli, MD Ari Tuckman, PsyD Amishi Jha, PhD Danielle Belardo, MD Margarett McCarthy, PhD Lisa Mosconi, PhD Lisa Genova Idrees ‘Dr. Idz’ Mughal, MBBS, MRes, DipIBLM Daniele Piomelli, PhD Frank Lin, MD, PhD Alan Flanagan, PhD Matthew Nagra, ND Stuart Phillips, PhD Natali Edmonds, PhD Satchin Panda, PhD Donn Posner, MD Sujay Kansagra, MD Yaakov Stern, PhD For more information about the Brain Health Revolution Summit, visit: The Brain Health Revolution Summit 2024 is presented in partnership with Healthy Minds Initiative: thymindsinitiative.org ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/33294667

Your Brain On... Having A Pet 09/25/2024

Your Brain On... Having A Pet What are our animal companions thinking? And how does our friendship with them change their brains, and our brains? We all wish we could communicate with our pets. Though we may never share a language, modern neuroscience has enabled us to ethically understand the cognitive anatomy and emotional signals of other animals like never before. In this episode of ‘Your Brain On...’, we discuss what we’ve learned so far, including: • The neurological phenomena that leads to domestication and, in turn, animal companionship • How oxytocin studies have signified that, yes, our dogs do love us back • The research that has shown how some companions might value social rewards from humans just as much as they value the food we provide for them • The differences (and similarities) between canine brains and human brains • How dogs do understand us to a degree, but not quite in the linguistic sense we might like to believe • The incredible things dogs can do for dementia patients • The importance of ethics in animal research • Why understanding the emotional capacity of other animals is vital Our guests for this episode are two of the foremost voices in animal cognition: BRIAN HARE: Professor in Evolutionary Anthropology, Psychology, and Neuroscience at Duke University, and a core member of their Center of Cognitive Neuroscience. Plus: co-author of ‘The Genius of Dogs’ and ‘Survival of the Friendliest’. GREGORY BERNS: Professor of Psychology and Distinguished Professor of Neuroeconomics, researcher of dogs (and more recently, cows), and author of ‘How Dogs Love Us’ and ‘Cowpuppy: An Unexpected Friendship and a Scientist’s Journey into the Secret World of Cows’. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: ‘Your Brain On... Having A Pet’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 8 ——— LINKS Brian Hare: Brian Hare’s website: The Hare Lab at Duke University: Brian’s book, ‘Survival of the Friendliest’: Gregory Berns: Gregory Berns’ website: Gregory’s book, ‘Cowpuppy’: ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/33199162

Your Brain On... Coffee 09/18/2024

Your Brain On... Coffee What does the most-purchased beverage in the world — coffee — do to your brain? Five centuries after its discovery, coffee is deeply entrenched in our diets on a global scale. More than half the U.S. population drinks coffee daily. We wake up with coffee, and catch up with friends over coffee. Historically, coffee has been heralded as an inspiring muse. But many headlines have warned us about the adverse effects of coffee. Is there truth in the supposed risks, or can we keep sipping away without a worry? In this episode of ‘Your Brain On...’, we discuss: • What caffeine does to your brain, and why it makes you feel awake • How much coffee is too much, and how caffeine affects us all differently (depending on our metabolism) • The antioxidant benefits of coffee • How coffee can improve concentration, and even potentially protect against neurodegenerative diseases • How different kinds of coffee affect our brains differently (black vs. cream and sugar, brewed vs. filter, caffeinated vs. decaf) • The risks of caffeine addiction • A brief history of how coffee became so ubiquitous in our lives Bringing the buzz to this episode are two coffee geniuses: DR. ASTRID NEHLIG, a neuroscientist out of the French Institute of Health and Medical Research who has studied the health impacts of coffee with impressive extensiveness. PROFESSOR JONATHAN MORRIS, AKA ‘The Coffee Historian’, author of ‘Coffee: A Global History’ and co-creator of the History of Coffee Podcast. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: ‘Your Brain On... Coffee’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 7 — LINKS Dr. Astrid Nehlig’s research: Professor Jonathan Morris’ website: Professor Morris at the University of Hertfordshire: — FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/33103682

Your Brain On... Grief 09/11/2024

Your Brain On... Caregiving 09/04/2024

Your Brain On... Caregiving As populations have aged, our need for caregivers has risen fast. The stresses of caregiving present brain health concerns that we must address urgently. Caregivers are heroes. But they’re often so focused on looking after someone else, they neglect themselves. And self-care is so vital for caregivers, because the role is one of the most physically-, emotionally-, and psychologically-demanding responsibilities anyone can take on. Here, we discuss what that self-care can look like. In this episode of ‘Your Brain On...’, we discuss: • How the chronic stress of caring for a loved one with a neurodegenerative disease like dementia can affect your brain • The ways we can mitigate these stresses, at the individual, family, and community levels • How self-care can help caregivers be more effective and attentive in their roles • Lifestyle interventions and meditative practices that can help alleviate the risks associated with caregiver burden • The need for better caregiver support at the socioeconomic and policy level • How emerging technologies are starting to help make caregivers’ workloads more manageable Joining us for this poignant conversation are two wonderful guests: DR. NATALI EDMONDS, a board-certified geropsychologist and founder of Dementia Careblazers, a platform providing support and guidance for dementia caregivers. DR. HELEN LAVRETSKY, a Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA and a leading researcher in geriatric psychiatry, who has researched the neurological benefits of lifestyle changes and de-stressing meditation for the cognitive and mental wellbeing of caregivers. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: ‘Your Brain On... Caregiving’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 5 — LINKS Dr. Natali Edmonds: Dementia Careblazers: The Dementia Careblazers podcast: Dementia Caregivers on YouTube: Dr. Helen Lavretsky: At UCLA: Study on yogic meditation for dementia caregivers: — FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/32889222

Your Brain On... Meditation 08/28/2024

Your Brain On... Meditation Meditation: an ancient practice with brain health benefits proven by modern science. Whether you’re focusing on your breathing to quieten peripheral distractions or using mindfulness to rebalance your emotional reactivity to everyday stresses, practicing meditation can spark long-term neuroplastic changes that will help you feel more attentive and calm in everything you do. In ‘Your Brain On... Meditation’, we explore: • How meditation alters your brain chemistry and ‘retrains’ your broader nervous system • The neuroscience of attention and focus, including your default mode and salience networks • Using mindfulness to break phone addiction, reduce stress, improve relationships, and practice self-care • The studies which highlight the long-term cognitive benefits of meditation • How we can all make time for meditation, no matter how busy our schedules • The limitations and risks of meditation apps Joining us for this important conversation are three fantastic guests: DR. AMISHI JHA, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Miami, a pioneer in the study of mindfulness and attention, and the author of the acclaimed book ‘Peak Mind’ DR. CLIFFORD SARON, a neuroscientist and Associate Research Scientist at the Center for Mind and Brain at the University of California, Davis, renowned for his work on the neurobiological effects of meditation DR. HELEN LAVRETSKY, a Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA and a leading researcher in geriatric psychiatry, who has extensively studied the effects of meditation and yoga on mental health and aging ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: https://brainhealthinstitute.com/ ‘Your Brain On... Meditation’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 4 — LINKS Dr. Amishi Jha: Book: On Instagram: On Twitter: Dr. Clifford Saron: Center for Mind and Brain: Dr. Helen Lavretsky: At UCLA: Study on yogic meditation for dementia caregivers: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/32772252

Your Brain On... Leg Strength 08/21/2024

Your Brain On... Leg Strength Leg strength isn’t just about physical health. There are enormous benefits for brain health, too. From the more obvious benefits for balance and mobility to the deeper neurochemical machinery that powers the production and transportation of brain-boosting proteins, leg strength has a far greater influence on brain health than we might expect. In this episode of ‘Your Brain On...’, we discuss: • The prevalence of injuries caused by falls in elderly populations (and how leg strength can help counter this problem) • How brain-boosting chemicals like BDNF are produced by resistance exercise • What actually happens to our muscles when we grow them with regular exercise • How we can all work on our leg strength, regardless of age and ability • The importance of rest, recovery, and nutrition in an effective exercise regime Joining us for this discussion are the immensely knowledgeable Dr. Stuart Phillips, a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at McMaster University, and Dr. Kirk Erickson, Associate Professor in the Dept. of Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh (and an expert in the area of exercise and cognitive health). ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... LEG STRENGTH’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 3 ——— LINKS Dr. Stuart Phillips at McMaster University: Dr. Stuart Phillips on Twitter: Dr. Kirk Erickson at the University of Pittsburgh: ——— REFERENCES (Studies Dr. Erickson referred to in the show): Colcombe, S. J., Erickson, K. I., Raz, N., et al. (2003). Aerobic fitness reduces brain tissue loss in aging humans. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 58(2), M176-M180. Colcombe, S. J., Erickson, K. I., Scalf, et al. (2006). Aerobic exercise training increases brain volume in aging humans. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 61(11), 1166-1170. ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/32667527

Your Brain On... Marijuana 08/14/2024

Your Brain On... Marijuana The neuroscience behind the benefits and risks of marijuana, explained. Splintered legislature, evolving taboos, and new forms of consumption have created a fragmented market for cannabis, and made it challenging for scientists to research its effects on our brains and bodies. In this episode, we unpack what we know about the cognitive impacts of marijuana use — the good and the bad — and explore new studies which are filling in the gaps. We discuss: • The difference between the THC and CBD cannabinoids, and their unique effects on our brains • How your endocannabinoid system works, and how it’s altered under the influence of marijuana • Why one woman with a genetic mutation that affected her endocannabinoid system couldn’t feel pain • The benefits of marijuana: nausea relief, pain management, and possible uses for reducing seizure frequency and helping with mental health • The risks of marijuana: memory disorders, addiction, developmental issues, and the dangers of high-potency products that are increasingly difficult to regulate • Why we first consumed cannabis, about 12,000 years ago Our incredible guests this week are: • Dr. Daniele Piomelli, Director of the Institute for the Study of Cannabis at the University of California Irvine • Dr. Susan Weiss, Director of the Division of Extramural Research at the National Institute on Drug Abuse ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: ‘Your Brain On... Marijuana’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 2 — LINKS Dr. Daniele Piomelli At University of California Irvine: https://cnlm.uci.edu/piomelli/ UCI Center for the Study of Cannabis: https://cannabis.uci.edu/ Dr. Susan Weiss National Institute on Drug Abuse: https://nida.nih.gov/ The ABCD Study: https://abcdstudy.org/ — FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/32570437

Your Brain On... Parkinson’s 08/07/2024

Your Brain On... Parkinson’s From 18th century London to the promise of a global cure: the 200-year history of Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s, a neurodegenerative disorder most commonly characterized by tremors and other motor symptoms, is so complex, many medical professionals are starting to classify it as a group of diseases, rather than a single disease. In this episode, we explain those complexities, including: • The motor symptoms (e.g. cogwheel rigidity, bradykinesia) and non-motor symptoms (e.g. depression, sleep disorders) • How the industrial revolution may have brought about environmental factors which contribute to Parkinson’s • The differences and similarities between Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s • How Parkinson’s manifests in our brains • Why one nurse was able to detect Parkinson’s through smell • The neurogenetics of Parkinson’s, and the ethical quandaries of evolving genetic technology • Why lifestyle — nutrition, exercise, etc. — is so key to preventing and managing Parkinson’s Joining us for this extensive conversation are three incredible guests: • Dr. Rachel Dolhun, Senior Vice President of Medical Communications at The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research • Dr. Michael Okun, evolutionary biologist, movement disorders specialist, and Director of the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases • Dr. Matthew Farrer, neurogenetics expert and Professor Of Neurology at the University of Florida ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: https://brainhealthinstitute.com/ ‘Your Brain On... Parkinson’s’ • SEASON 3 • EPISODE 1 (SEASON 3 DEBUT) ————— LINKS Dr. Rachel Dolhun: At the Michael J. Fox Foundation: ‘Ask the MD’ series: The Michael J. Fox Foundation on YouTube: Dr. Michael Okun: At the University of Florida: The book ‘Ending Parkinson’s Disease’: The Norman Fixel Institute: Dr. Matthew Farrer: At the University of Florida: ————— References: Bloem, B. R., Okun, M. S., & Klein, C. (2021). Parkinson's disease. The Lancet, 397(10291), 2284-2303. Morris, H. R., Spillantini, M. G., Sue, C. M., & Williams-Gray, C. H. (2024). The pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. The Lancet, 403(10423), 293-304. Dorsey, E., Sherer, T., Okun, M. S., & Bloem, B. R. (2018). The emerging evidence of the Parkinson pandemic. Journal of Parkinson's disease, 8(s1), S3-S8. Dorsey, E. R., Okun, M. S., & Tanner, C. M. (2021). Bad Air and Parkinson Disease—The Fog May Be Lifting. JAMA neurology, 78(7), 793-795. Tsalenchuk, M., Gentleman, S. M., & Marzi, S. J. (2023). Linking environmental risk factors with epigenetic mechanisms in Parkinson’s disease. npj Parkinson's Disease, 9(1), 123. Reynoso, A., Torricelli, R., Jacobs, B. M., Shi, J., Aslibekyan, S., Norcliffe‐Kaufmann, L., ... & Heilbron, K. (2024). Gene–Environment Interactions for Parkinson's Disease. Annals of Neurology, 95(4), 677-687. Golsorkhi, M., Sherzai, A., & Dashtipour, K. The Influence of Lifestyle on Parkinson's Disease Management. In Lifestyle Medicine, Fourth Edition (pp. 919-924). CRC Press. Sherzai, A. Z., Tagliati, M., Park, K., Pezeshkian, S., & Sherzai, D. (2016). Micronutrients and risk of Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review. Gerontology and geriatric medicine, 2, 2333721416644286. ————— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/32467827

Your Brain On... Ozempic 07/03/2024

Your Brain On... Retirement 06/26/2024

Your Brain On... Retirement Retirement, often considered a period of late-life decline, can actually be a time of cognitive growth and prosperity. When we retire, all the neurologically stimulating aspects of our working life — the mental and physical challenges, socializing and strategizing with colleagues, etc. — can disappear overnight. An abrupt lifestyle change of this magnitude can be taxing for our brains, but with the right preparation, our twilight years can truly be the best of our lives. In this episode of ‘Your Brain On…’, we discuss: • The neurological impacts of retirement • What we can learn from how different cultures approach retirement • How building our cognitive reserve can protect our brains as we age • The future of research into the neuroscience of retirement • Why minority populations often disproportionately struggle with retirement We’re joined by FOUR experts in the field of cognitive aging: DR. YAAKOV STERN: professor of neuropsychology at Columbia University, and a pioneer of the concept of cognitive reserve DR. AMANDA SONNEGA: Research Scientist at the University of Michigan DR. SHERVIN ASSARI: Director of Research, Public Health at Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science DR. ALAN GOW: head of The Ageing Lab at Heriot-Watt University in Scotland ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. Drs. Ayesha and Dean are now welcoming patients via the Brain Health Institute: https://brainhealthinstitute.com/ ‘Your Brain On... Retirement • SEASON 2 • EPISODE 9 LINKS Dr. Yaakov Stern at Columbia University: Wikipedia: Dr. Amanda Sonnega at University of Michigan: Dr. Shervin Assari at Charles R. Drew University: on Twitter (AKA ‘X’): Dr. Alan Gow at Heriot-Watt University: on Twitter (AKA ‘X’): FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/31894142

Your Brain On... Introversion 06/19/2024

Your Brain On... Sleep 06/12/2024

Your Brain On... Virtual Reality 06/05/2024

Your Brain On... Sunlight 05/29/2024

Your Brain On... Fats 05/22/2024

Your Brain On... Fats Fat can have a bad reputation, but certain fats are essential for the healthy functioning of your brain. Between government guidelines, fad diets, and our endless social feeds, nutrition advice overload has left us all a bit lost with how to incorporate healthy fats into what we eat. In this episode, we discuss: • The different kinds of fats (saturated vs. unsaturated) and which ones we actually need to consume • The myth that “because your brain is primarily made of fat, it thrives on a high-fat diet” • How the cardiovascular damage caused by saturated fats can increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia • All the tasty ways you can get more healthy, unsaturated, essential fats into your meals We welcome esteemed nutrition scientist Dr. Alan Flanagan back to the show, to explore the history of research into the impact of fats and how it shaped one of the most robust bodies of evidence in all of science. We’re also joined by Dr. Danielle Belardo, renowned cardiologist and science communicator, to talk about the interplay between heart health, brain health, and fats, the controversy around statins, the low-down on LDL cholesterol, and the future of cardiovascular interventions. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... FATS’ • SEASON 2 • EPISODE 4 LINKS Dr. Alan Flanagan: Alan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenutritionaladvocate Alinea Nutrition: https://www.alineanutrition.com/ Dr. Danielle Belardo: Dr. Belardo’s website: https://www.daniellebelardomd.com/ Practical, Evidence-Based Approaches to Nutritional Modifications to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35284849/ FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: REFERENCES Scientific articles discussed in this episode: Mensink, Ronald P., and World Health Organization. Effects of saturated fatty acids on serum lipids and lipoproteins: a systematic review and regression analysis. World Health Organization, 2016. Okereke, Olivia I., et al. “Dietary fat types and 4‐year cognitive change in community‐dwelling older women.” Annals of neurology 72.1 (2012): 124-134. Simian Diet paper: Kendall, Cyril WC, and David JA Jenkins. “A dietary portfolio: maximal reduction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with diet.” Current atherosclerosis reports 6.6 (2004): 492-498. Solomon, Alina, et al. “Midlife serum cholesterol and increased risk of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia three decades later.” Dementia and geriatric cognitive disorders 28.1 (2009): 75-80. Morris, Martha Clare, et al. “Dietary fats and the risk of incident Alzheimer disease.” Archives of neurology 60.2 (2003): 194-200. Keys, Ancel, Joseph T. Anderson, and Francisco Grande. “Prediction of serum-cholesterol responses of man to changes in fats in the diet.” Lancet 273 (1957): 959-966 Anitschkow, N. N., and S. Chalatow. 1913. Ueber experimentelle Cholesterinsteatose und ihre Bedeutung fur die Entstehung eini- ger pathologischer Prozesse. Zentralbl. Allg. Pathol. 24: 1–9. Keys, Ancel, et al. “The seven countries study: 2,289 deaths in 15 years.” Preventive medicine 13.2 (1984): 141-154. Sherzai, Ayesha Z., Alexander N. Sherzai, and Dean Sherzai. "A systematic review of omega-3 consumption and neuroprotective cognitive outcomes." American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine 17.4 (2023): 560-588. Rajan, Kumar B., et al. "Statin Initiation and Risk of Incident Alzheimer Disease and Cognitive Decline in Genetically Susceptible Older Adults." Neurology 102.7 (2024): e209168. Olmastroni, Elena, et al. "Statin use and risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies." European journal of preventive cardiology 29.5 (2022): 804-814. /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/31414067

Your Brain On... Hearing Loss 05/15/2024

Your Brain On... Hearing Loss How does hearing loss change the brain and contribute to cognitive decline? The human capacity to hear is incredible. In milliseconds, sound vibrations are transformed into mechanical energy, then sensorineural signals, and then, in our brains, a universe of meaning and memory. When that sense begins to fade, either due to aging or because of causative damage, our brains can become understimulated, potentially leading to the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. But, with accessibility research, technology, and policy continuing to strengthen and converge, the future promises to be brighter for everyone experiencing hearing loss. In this episode of ‘YOUR BRAIN ON...’, we discuss: • The different kinds and causes of hearing loss • The relationship between aging and hearing loss • The neurological distinction between ‘hearing’ and ‘listening’ • The recent groundbreaking studies which have made the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline clearer than ever • How associated conditions like tinnitus impact the brain • What’s coming next in hearing aid technology This episode, we’re joined by: DR. FRANK LIN, Director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health at Johns Hopkins, who headed major research into how hearing loss contributes to increased risk of neurodegenerative disease. DR. DOUGLAS BECK, renowned audiologist and co-host of the Hearing Matters podcast, who talks about the past and future of hearing aid devices, how to protect your hearing, and why listening — not hearing — is a whole-brain event. DR. KRISTIN BARRY, researcher and tinnitus expert, who breaks down the various types of tinnitus and explains how the effects of tinnitus can be observed in the brain. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... HEARING LOSS’ • SEASON 2 • EPISODE 3 LINKS Dr. Frank Lin Johns Hopkins Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health: The Hearing Number: Dr. Douglas Beck Dr. Beck’s website: The Hearing Matters podcast: Dr. Kristin Barry Dr. Barry at the University of Western Australia: Dr. Barry’s TEDx talk: FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/31282407

Your Brain On... Comedy 05/08/2024

Your Brain On... Space Travel 05/01/2024

Your Brain On... Space Travel Space travel goes against a million years of human evolution. So how does it affect our brains? In just six decades of manned space flights, we’ve discovered a remarkable amount about the neurological effects of venturing to the stars. In this episode of ‘YOUR BRAIN ON...’ we discuss: • How low gravity changes your brain structure, impacts your balance, and... actually might improve your sleep • The cognitive dangers of space travel, from the mania of isolation to the destructive forces of cosmic radiation • Why we’re evolutionary drawn to explore other worlds and believe in aliens • What spaceflight can teach us about neuroplasticity and cogntive decline This episode, we’re joined by: DR. JAY BUCKEY, astronaut and space physiologist, who, in 1998, was part of the Neurolab mission, going to space for 16 days to study the effects of spaceflight on the brain and nervous system. DR. SHEYNA GIFFORD, aerospace medic, who famously spent a year in a simulation of Mars on a volcano in Hawaii, to study the psychological impacts of long-term space travel. DR. RACHAEL SEIDLER, Professor in the Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology at the University of Florida, and an expert on spaceflight’s affects on neuroplasticity. EMILY CALANDRELLI, renowned science educator and engineer, who highlights how what we learn while exploring space greatly benefits our lives down here on Earth. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... SPACE TRAVEL’ • SEASON 2 • EPISODE 1 👉 LINKS Dr. Jay Buckey at Dartmouth: Dr. Sheyna Gifford’s website: Dr. Rachael Seidler at University of Florida: Dr. Rachael Seidler on Twitter (AKA ‘X’): Emily Calandrelli’s website, ‘The Space Gal’: Emily Calandrelli on Instagram: Emily Calandrelli on TikTok: 👉 FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: TheBrainDocs.com/Podcast /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/31063848

Your Brain On... Presidential Aging 04/03/2024

Your Brain On... Presidential Aging The U.S. is set to have its oldest President ever. Should we be worried, or are we thinking about aging the wrong way? The unprecedented age of the two United States presidential candidates, Biden and Trump, has sparked fiery debates over whether a leader can be ‘too old’ to effectively run a country. Our guest for this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Charan Ranganath, recently published a New York Times op-ed offering an alternative view: age itself may not be a useful metric for measuring how successfully a president might lead the nation. In this episode of ‘Your Brain On’, we discuss: • The different types of memory, and how they work • How our brains can remain more resilient than is often thought in older age • Historic figures who have made significant contributions to the world during their twilight years • The inspiring power of our cognitive reserve We’re also joined by longevity expert Dan Buettner, renowned for his work on ‘The Blue Zones’ — parts of the world with longer life expectancy — for a conversation about why having an older leader might not be an inherently bad thing. This is the SEASON ONE FINALE of Your Brain On. Thank you so much for listening! We return in May 2024 with ten more exhilarating stories about the world through a neuroscientific lens. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... Presidential Aging’ • SEASON 1 • EPISODE 10 Daniel Kahneman, the Nobel Prize-winning psychologist and celebrated author, who Dr. Charan Ranganath mentioned during our conversation, sadly passed away the week before we recorded this episode. We dedicate this episode to his memory, and his work. ——— LINKS Dr. Charan Ranganath His website: His new book, ‘Why We Remember’: At UC Davis: Dan Buettner His website: Blue Zones: On Instagram: ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/30657408

Your Brain On... Cardio 03/27/2024

Your Brain On... Cardio A healthier heart equals a healthier brain — no surprise there — but what’s the neuroscience behind the benefits of a cardio workout? Cardiovascular exercise, be it a brisk stroll, a light jog, or an intense interval training session, releases neurotransmitters that can improve your mood, reduce stress, enhance your memory, and strengthen immunity. In this episode of ‘Your Brain On’, we discuss: • How your brain and your body respond to increasingly challenging aerobic workouts • The neurochemistry of phenomena like ‘feeling the burn’ and ‘runner’s high’ • How the protein BDNF, triggered by exercise, can reverse the effects of aging and cognitive decline • Ways to integrate more cardio exercise into your life, no matter which hurdles each day brings We speak to Dr. John Ratey, author of ‘Spark’, widely celebrated as one of THE go-to books about how exercise benefits the brain. He shares the story that led him to write the book, about a school which favored fitness over sports skills in its PE classes and subsequently ranked amid the smartest schools in the world. We’re also joined by Dr. Art Kramer, Professor of Psychology and Director of the Center for Cognitive & Brain Health at Northeastern University, who dismisses the idea that you can be ‘too old to exercise’. And we invite anti-influencer and social media personality Erin Azar, AKA Mrs. Space Cadet, to the show, to talk about how her videos, which show the less glamorous side of running and exercise, went viral and spawned a community of nearly one-million followers. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... Cardio • SEASON 1 • EPISODE 9 ——— LINKS Our ‘Mastering Memory’ training webinar: Dr. John Ratey Website and books: Dr. Art Kramer At Northeastern University College of Science: Erin Azar, “Mrs. Space Cadet” Instagram: TikTok: ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: TheBrainDocs.com/Podcast /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/30561193

Your Brain On... Alzheimer’s 03/20/2024

Your Brain On... Alzheimer’s How does Alzheimer’s alter the brain, and how do we create a future without the disease? Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, threatens to single-handedly collapse our healthcare systems. But our knowledge of how to prevent it is stronger than ever. In this episode of ‘YOUR BRAIN ON’, we discuss: • The power of stories and the importance of community for finding comfort and confidence following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis • What we know about preventing cognitive decline through brain-healthy living • The neurochemistry of how Alzheimer’s physically changes the brain • Genetic predisposition to neurodegenerative diseases, and why women have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s • Why we should approach brain health in the same way we approach heart health We’re joined by Dr. Lisa Genova, neuroscientist and writer of ‘Still Alice’, a book which allows the reader to step into the shoes of a woman experiencing the onset of Alzheimer’s. ‘Still Alice’ was adapted into a feature film, for which Julianne Moore won an Academy Award for Best Actress in 2015. Lisa talks to us about how stories can help us find a sense of hope and empathy in the face of ‘scary’ diagnoses. Dr. Charles DeCarli, Director of the the University of California Davis Alzheimer’s Disease Center, explains a broad range of Alzheimer’s risk factors — from amyloid and tau proteins to cardiovascular diseases — and offers advice on thinking about brain health as part of the body’s wider functionality, not a standalone system. And Dr. Lisa Mosconi, neuroscientist, educator, and author of ‘The Menopause Brain’, highlights how the hormonal shifts caused by menopause contribute to a higher prevalence of Alzheimer’s in women, and unpacks the controversial history and potential future of hormone replacement therapy. ‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neuroscientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai. ‘Your Brain On... ADHD • SEASON 1 • EPISODE 8 ——— LINKS Lisa Genova: Website and books: Instagram: Lisa Mosconi: Website: Instagram: Book, ‘The Menopause Brain’: Dr. Charles DeCarli at UC Davis Health: ——— FOLLOW US Join the NEURO Academy: Instagram: Website: More info and episodes: /episode/index/show/e67587a1-99c5-40a9-9410-66bde068803d/id/30452638

Your Brain On... Being A Woman 03/13/2024

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