#257 ‒ Cognitive decline, neurodegeneration, and head injuries: mitigation and prevention strategies, supplements, and more | Tommy Wood, M.D., Ph.D. | The Peter Attia Drive

Intro

In this episode of “The Peter Attia Drive,” Dr. Peter Attia is joined by Dr. Tommy Wood to discuss cognitive decline, neurodegeneration, and head injuries. They delve into strategies for mitigating and preventing cognitive decline, the benefits of brain stimulation and lifestyle factors, and the impact of head injuries on brain health. Dr. Wood’s extensive background in medicine, neuroscience, and athletic performance consulting brings a unique perspective to the conversation.

Main Takeaways

Age-Related Cognitive Decline

• Age-related cognitive decline is a linear decrease in cognitive function across various measurements.
• Lifestyle changes can slow down or prevent age-related cognitive decline.
• Memory, executive function, processing speed, and reaction time are all aspects of cognitive function.
• Encoding and retrieval are two different parts of memory, and sleep impairment and stress can affect memory retrieval.

Brain Health and Supplements

• A healthy brain requires good vascular and metabolic supply, neuronal membrane structure, and mitochondrial function.
• Supplements like creatine monohydrate, marine omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), and citicoline may have neuroprotective benefits.
• Complex cognitive activities, such as playing chess or dancing, can improve cognitive function and protect against cognitive decline.
• Open-skill physical activities are better for cognitive function than closed-skill activities.

Head Injuries and Concussions

• Concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury caused by force to the brain.
• Even mild impacts can disrupt neuronal function and lead to cognitive issues.
• Formal medical assessment and baseline cognitive testing are important for those at risk of concussions.
• Cooling strategies and therapeutic hypothermia may have potential benefits in managing brain injuries.

Summary

Age-Related Cognitive Decline and Brain Health

Age-related cognitive decline is a natural part of aging, but lifestyle changes can slow down or prevent its progression. Memory, executive function, processing speed, and reaction time are all affected by cognitive decline. Sleep impairment and stress can also impact memory retrieval. Maintaining a healthy brain requires good vascular and metabolic supply, neuronal membrane structure, and mitochondrial function. Supplements like creatine monohydrate, marine omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), and citicoline may have neuroprotective benefits. Engaging in complex cognitive activities, such as playing chess or dancing, can improve cognitive function and protect against cognitive decline. Open-skill physical activities are especially beneficial for cognitive function.

Head Injuries and Concussions

Concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury that can occur from even mild impacts. It is crucial to undergo formal medical assessment and baseline cognitive testing for those at risk of concussions. Cooling strategies and therapeutic hypothermia may have potential benefits in managing brain injuries, although further research is needed. Understanding the impact of head injuries and taking appropriate measures to minimize their severity is essential for brain health.

Conclusion

Dr. Tommy Wood and Dr. Peter Attia provide valuable insights into cognitive decline, brain health, and head injuries. By implementing lifestyle changes, engaging in complex cognitive activities, and taking neuroprotective supplements, individuals can potentially slow down or prevent age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, understanding the risks and management strategies for head injuries can help minimize their impact on brain health. It is crucial for individuals to take an active role in their own health and work collaboratively with healthcare professionals to optimize cognitive function and overall well-being.