Ep. 410 Cognitive Changes: Memory, Aging, and Brain Health Insights with Tommy Wood, MD, PHD

I am delighted to have Dr. Tommy Wood joining me today. He is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Washington, where he studies brain injury and how lifestyle choices and environmental factors impact brain health, cognitive function, and chronic disease. 

In today's discussion, we explore age-related cognitive changes and how cognitive function peaks early in life and evolves through retirement. We cover specialization versus lifelong learning, the role of memory, the effects of childhood trauma, and the physiology of dementia and Alzheimer's. We also discuss how sleep impacts brain health, lifestyle factors, labs to consider, including homocysteine and Omega-3 levels, and the value of skeletal muscle mass in preventing dementia. Dr. Wood also shares his insights on concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and supplements like creatine and sex hormones for maintaining cognitive health. 

This conversation with Dr. Tommy Wood is exceptionally insightful, and I look forward to having him back on the show again.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

• Common cognitive changes that occur in perimenopause, menopause, and beyond
• How some aspects of cognitive function remain relatively stable or even improve with age
• Why education is not necessary for cognitive development, and how specialized careers can reduce cognitive stimulation.
• How retirement impacts cognitive function
• The benefits of physical activity, particularly cardiovascular fitness, for brain health
• Why memory issues are not necessarily indicative of dementia
• How trauma can lead to smaller brain volume
• Why regular sleep and proper circadian alignment are crucial for maintaining brain health and cognitive function
• Blood markers for cognitive health
• Why muscle mass is essential for overall health and cognitive function

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

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• Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com

Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood 

• On Instagram
• The Better Brain Fitness Podcast