Cognitive Comeback

Reclaiming Brain Health through Functional Medicine,                Nutrition and Lifestyle

In the past 30 years, the rates of dementia-related diseases have surged at an alarming rate. According to the World Health Organization, there are more than 55 million people currently living with dementia worldwide – a number projected to double every 20 years [WHO, 2021]. These progressive, neurodegenerative diseases have traditionally been accepted as an inevitable and “normal” part of aging. Unfortunately, this tired narrative has left those diagnosed with dementia-related diseases feeling hopeless and disempowered, but fortunately, functional medicine and nutrition can offer a different perspective and hopefully, a better path forward.

The field of functional medicine and nutrition– grounded in a systems biology approach, assumes that everything is connected, we are all unique, and all things matter. This refresh challenges the old paradigm of treating the disease or diagnoses itself and not the whole person, and instead, asks a deeper question:

What are the root causes of cognitive decline, and how can they be addressed to slow or even reverse disease progression?

While age is a primary risk factor of cognitive decline, a growing body of research suggests that dementia related diseases are the result of several whole-body imbalances- all of which are highly modifiable with diet and lifestyle support. This is great news! By addressing the roots of inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, toxic exposures, and nutrient deficiencies, we can significantly impact our brain health trajectory.

The Standard American Diet, (SAD) and Brain Health:

Rich in refined carbohydrates and processed foods, the “SAD” fuels chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which are strongly linked to brain degeneration and disease. In fact, Alzheimer’s is commonly referred to as “type 3 diabetes” because with Alzheimer’s, insulin resistance is thought to primarily affect the brain, impairing its ability to utilize glucose for energy.

A 2020 study found that insulin resistance and high glucose levels in the blood significantly increased the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia [Keller, Derek et al., Lancet Neurology, 2020].

We are a nation commonly referred to as “overfed and undernourished” due to our high consumption of processed and refined foods, which are lacking in nutrient density and leaving us with significant nutrient depletion. Our cells need nutrients from food and adequate hydration to function!

 A high intake of ultra-processed food has been associated with a 25% faster rate of cognitive decline [Goncalves et al., JAMA Neurology, 2022].

The Gut-Brain Axis and its Influence on Brain Health:

Pathogenic bacteria detected in DNA-based stool tests, like the GI MAP, show that certain gut bacteria living in the gut can increase systemic inflammation and produce their own toxins inside the body, which can cross the blood brain barrier and trigger brain inflammation.

Pathogenic gut bacteria have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients and may play a role in amyloid plaque formation [Emory et al, Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2017].

Environmental Toxic Exposures and Brain Health

Early, mid, and late life exposures to environmental toxins – like mycotoxins from mold, heavy metals such as mercury and lead, pesticides and herbicides sprayed on our food supply and air pollution – can damage neurons, impair our ability to make ATP (energy), and disrupt the way our neurons in the brain communicate.

Chronic low-dose exposure to mold mycotoxins has been implicated in neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment [Ehsanifar et al., JIN, 2023].

Chronic low-level exposure to heavy metals (especially arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mixed-metal exposure) is increasingly implicated in cognitive impairment and elevated dementia risk—even in populations without obvious poisoning [Domingo-Relloso et al., JAMA Network, 2024].

Hormonal Imbalances and Brain Health

Unresolved physical, mental, and emotional stress increases cortisol levels, impairs hippocampal function, and worsens inflammation– contributing to memory loss and accelerated brain aging.

Chronic psychological stress is associated with hippocampal atrophy and impaired memory performance [Lupien et al., Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 2009].

A drop in testosterone, estrogen, and DHEA starting in midlife may play a negative role in brain aging and neuroplasticity.

A study published back in 2015 showed women are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s and estrogen deficiency may be a primary reason. The drop in estrogen during perimenopause and menopause is a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s, as estrogen supports mitochondrial health and the neuronal plasticity in the brain [Brinton et al., Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 2015].

Melatonin is known as our sleep hormone and a powerful antioxidant that plays a big role in the brain’s nighttime detox process called glymphatic drainage. Low levels of melatonin are linked to poor sleep and a buildup of amyloid plaque formation.

Sleep disturbances in midlife are predictive of later-life cognitive decline [Sabia et al., Nature Communications, 2021].

Key Takeaways and Action Steps for those Navigating Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline is often the result of cumulative lifestyle and environmental insults- not just aging. A functional medicine and nutrition practitioner has access to specialized tests that can help get to the root causes of brain dysfunction by detecting toxicities in the body and addressing them as key drivers of disease. Also, a functional-minded practitioner supports and encourages the client or patient to recognize the value in:

*Embracing a neuroprotective diet rich in nutrient-dense, whole food and using targeted supplementation when appropriate to replete nutrients to improve overall function across all body systems

*Engaging in daily exercise and movement

*Optimizing detoxification pathways and sleep hygiene

*Social engagement and learning new activities to strengthen neuroplasticity in the brain

While not every case of dementia can be reversed, there is growing consensus that prevention is entirely possible – and NOW is the time to course correct and take intentional steps towards dismantling dysfunctional states in the body so that health, vitality, and wholeness can be reclaimed.

The Scher Center for Well Being is committed to providing all the support, tools, and services necessary to unravel the stressors inherent in modern day living and design a unique blueprint for your own “Cognitive Comeback”. Contact us today for a consult!