“The immune system has strategies for filtering these autoimmune cells out of circulation; however, this filter can malfunction due to age, genetic predisposition, disruption of the gut barrier and gut microbiota, or other environmental exposures.”
“Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune neurodegenerative disorder that destroys myelin, the insulating layer that surrounds neurons. The causes of MS are complex and may arise from both genetic and environmental factors, including nutritional deficiencies.”
“Roughly one-quarter of people living in the US carry a genetic variant of the apolipoprotein E gene, called APOE4, the most important genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Many lifestyle behaviors can mitigate risk, especially sleep hygiene, which provides an opportunity to rid the brain of toxic metabolic byproducts that can contribute to Alzheimer's disease risk.”
“Naturally occurring forms of vitamin K include phylloquinone, known as vitamin K1, and a family of molecules called menaquinones, known as vitamin K2. In this Aliquot, Dr. Bruce Ames and I discuss the differences between (and dietary sources of) vitamins K1 and K2 and their effects on human health.”
“Exposure to environmental toxins – in the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe – is largely unavoidable. But monitoring our exposures and implementing diet and lifestyle strategies can help mitigate the risks associated with toxic exposures. In this Aliquot, Dr. Dale Bredesen, Dr. Michael Snyder, and I discuss ways to deal with our increasingly toxic environment.”
“Meditation is a form of mental training geared toward improving aspects of a person's core neurocognitive function, such as the regulation of attention and emotion. Research suggests that meditation may protect the brain from the negative effects of stress and promote mental health.”
“Meditation, in its various forms, has powerful effects on the brain and body. In this second part of our two-part series on meditation, we'll discuss some of the different ways to engage in meditation as well as some of its parallel practices, such as running or communing with nature.”
“Resistance training is one of the most effective ways to maintain bone health. Still, other lifestyle factors, like not smoking, limiting alcohol, and ensuring that you provide your body with the nutritional components it needs for bone-building, are important too.”
“Your skin is a crucial barrier to the outside world – the first line of defense against environmental exposures, and the primary means by which the body retains fluids necessary for survival. Consequently, maintaining a healthy skin barrier is important for your overall health. In this Aliquot, Dr. Patrick describes some things you can do to protect your skin.”
“Vascular dysfunction, the loss of normal endothelial tone and permeability of blood vessels, is a common feature of most forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. People who carry the APOE4 gene are at greater risk for vascular dysfunction and Alzheimer's disease.”