The Empowering Neurologist Podcast

• The Fasting Mimicking Diet - A Powerful Tool for Treating Cancer - with Valter Longo | EP 200

  🧠 Stay ahead with the latest in science, nutrition, and wellness by subscribing to Dr. Perlmutter’s newsletter at: www.drperlmutter.com. ✉️🌱Cancer remains a formidable global challenge, with nearly one in six deaths worldwide attributed to the disease. Over 60% of patients undergoing conventional treatments experience severe side effects, highlighting the need for complementary therapies that enhance efficacy and reduce harm.Dr. Valter Longo, a leading figure in aging and nutritional science, has introduced a groundbreaking approach known as the fasting mimicking diet (FMD). Through years of research, Dr. Longo has shown that cycles of controlled fasting can trigger cellular regeneration, reduce inflammation, and improve metabolic health.His work has reshaped our understanding of nutrition’s role in health and disease, providing a scientific basis for fasting as a tool to support standard cancer therapies. The fasting mimicking diet offers a promising adjunct to traditional treatments. By strategically reducing calorie intake, FMD protects healthy cells and makes cancer cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy and radiation.This dual effect boosts the effectiveness of treatment while mitigating debilitating side effects. Dr. Longo’s new book, Fasting Cancer, the subject of our podcast, explores the science behind fasting and its potential to transform cancer care. He shares practical guidelines, compelling case studies, and robust research that illustrate how FMD can be integrated with standard therapies for better outcomes.Listeners of The Empowering Neurologist were captivated by Dr. Longo’s ability to translate complex science into actionable advice in his previous appearance, and this episode is no exception. His work continues to inspire both patients and healthcare professionals to explore innovative, science-driven approaches in the fight against cancer.As research unfolds, the fasting mimicking diet stands as a testament to the power of nutritional science in modern medicine. Embracing this strategy, patients and clinicians alike are witnessing a promising future in cancer care.====00:00 Introduction02:10 The Cancer Nutrition Scientist Changing Everything04:36 How Cancer Cells Hack Aging And Stay Immortal06:00 The Hidden Danger Of Cancer Cell Survival After Chemo07:30 Why Young People Are Getting More Cancer Than Ever10:48 Are We Eating Too Much Protein For Longevity13:22 A Diet That Weakens Cancer But Shields Healthy Cells17:55 What Is The Fasting Mimicking Diet And Why It Works21:40 The Critical Timing That Makes Chemo More Effective23:00 How Starving Cancer Creates A Predictable Weak Spot27:30 The Multi-Angle Attack That Slows Glioblastoma29:15 Could This Diet Delay Or Reverse Alzheimer’s32:50 Clinical Trials Show This Diet Reverses Diabetes36:30 How Fasting Triggers Organ Regeneration In Humans41:05 The Shocking Risks Behind Popular Weight Loss Drugs57:14 Conclusion====Valter Longo is the director of the Longevity Institute at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. He studies basic and clinical research on nutrition, aging, and disease, with a focus on cancer, autoimmunity, Alzheimer’s, and cardiometabolic illness. Dr. Longo has received multiple awards including the 2010 Nathan Shock Lecture Award from the National Institute on Aging, the 2013 Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award, and the 2016 Glenn Award for Research in the Biological Mechanisms of Aging. In 2018, Time named him one of the 50 most influential people in health care, and in 2021 Science magazine called him a pioneer in nutrition and cancer. He is the author of Fasting Cancer and The Longevity Diet.___________________________Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidperlmutter/Website: https://www.drperlmutter.com/Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDRl_UAXxbHyOOjklnA0dxQ/?sub_confirmation=1

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• The Gut-Brain Paradox: Secrets To Restoring Health - with Steven Gundry | EP 199

  🧠 Stay ahead with the latest in science, nutrition, and wellness by subscribing to Dr. Perlmutter’s newsletter at: www.drperlmutter.com. ✉️🌱Welcome back to The Empowering Neurologist! In this episode we have a truly fascinating conversation lined up with none other than Dr. Steven Gundry, a world-renowned heart surgeon-turned-functional medicine expert, whose work has transformed the way we understand diet, disease, and longevity.Dr. Gundry is no stranger to challenging conventional medical wisdom. In his latest book, The Gut-Brain Paradox: Improve Your Mood, Clear Brain Fog, and Reverse Disease by Healing Your Microbiome (HarperCollins; April 15, 2025), he flips the script on the traditional gut-brain connection. His research reveals a startling truth: your microbiome is not just influencing your brain—it’s controlling it.For years, we’ve heard that the brain sends signals to the gut. But Dr. Gundry shows that it’s actually the other way around: the microbes in our gut are shaping our thoughts, emotions, and even personality. From food cravings to mental health struggles, from cognitive decline to addiction—these tiny gut-dwelling organisms are the real puppet masters. And when our gut falls out of balance, neurological dysfunction follows.In this episode, we’ll explore:✅ How gut bacteria influence cravings, mood, and even personality✅ The surprising link between gut inflammation and drug tolerance✅ Why a leaky gut can lead to brain fog, neurodegeneration, and mental health issues✅ How to reclaim control of your mind by healing your microbiomeDr. Gundry lays out a powerful, science-backed plan to restore gut health and optimize brain function, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. If you’ve ever struggled with brain fog, anxiety, depression, or unexplained neurological symptoms, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to this eye-opening conversation and discover how fixing your gut provides an important step to unlocking your brain’s full potential.==== 00:00 Introduction03:00 Why a Heart Surgeon Wrote a Book on the Brain06:18 The Forgotten Hero Who Was Beaten to Death for Washing His Hands09:08 A Parkinson’s Case Reversed by Healing the Gut?13:28 Gluten Cross-Contamination and a Son’s Cutting Board: A Shocking Relapse19:16 Gut Leaks, Brain Barriers, and Immune Sabotage: The Mechanism Explained23:15 The Alzheimer’s Barrier Theory: Why Beta-Amyloid Might Be the Brain’s Defense System26:20 Can Depression Be Healed Through the Gut?30:27 Are Bacteria Controlling Your Addictions and Cravings?34:02 The Scariest Mind-Control Parasite You’ve Never Heard Of38:41 Eat This, Not That: How to Hack Your Gut for Better Brain Health41:23 Neu5Gc and How it Impacts Our Brains48:03 Are Polyphenols the Brain’s Secret Weapon?56:38 Dead Bacteria, Live Benefits: Why Your Probiotic Doesn’t Need to Survive01:05:05 Conclusion and Thank you====Steven R. Gundry, MD, is the director of the International Heart and Lung Institute in Palm Springs, California, and the founder and director of the Center for Restorative Medicine in Palm Springs and Santa Barbara. After a distinguished surgical career as a professor and chairman of cardiothoracic surgery at Loma Linda University, Dr. Gundry changed his focus to curing modern diseases via dietary changes. He has written more than three hundred articles published in peer-reviewed journals on using diet and supplements to eliminate heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disease, and multiple other diseases. He is the host of the top ranked nutrition podcast The Dr. Gundry Podcast and founder of Gundry MD, a wellness brand. Dr. Gundry lives with his wife, Penny, and their dogs in Palm Springs and Montecito, California.___________________________Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidperlmutter/Website: https://www.drperlmutter.com/Subscribe to our channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDRl_UAXxbHyOOjklnA0dxQ/?sub_confirmation=1

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• The Science of Longevity: Separating Myths from Breakthroughs - with Dr. Darshan Shah | EP 198

  🧠 Stay ahead with the latest in science, nutrition, and wellness by subscribing to Dr. Perlmutter’s newsletter at: www.drperlmutter.com. ✉️🌱We hear so much these days about various “biohacking” techniques that are purported to be helpful for us in terms of improving our health and even extending our lifespan. But I think it's really important that we unpack some of these ideas and get a good understanding as to what they involve and what we can expect if we were to engage them. We're going to explore a variety of hot topics like exosome therapy, peptide therapy, cryotherapy hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and other innovative techniques. But most importantly we will explore how our simple, day-to-day lifestyle choices impact our health in terms of preserving our resistance to disease, and possibly even extending our lives.Our guest is Dr. Darshan Shah, a powerful influencer in the area of health-span improvement. Let me tell you a little bit more about Dr. Shah.Darshan Shah, MD, is a health and wellness specialist, board-certified surgeon, published author, entrepreneur, and founder of Next Health, the world's first and largest Health Optimization and Longevity clinic. As a Longevity Medicine specialist, he has advised thousands of patients on how to optimize their well-being and extend their healthspan and lifespan. Dr. Shah began his career at an accelerated MD program and earned his medical degree at the age of 21, becoming one of the youngest doctors in the United States. He continued his training at the Mayo Clinic, one of the most prestigious medical institutes in the country. Dr. Shah’s belief in continual education and self-improvement has earned him alumni status at Harvard Business School, Singularity University, and other prestigious institutions. His passion is speaking on the topics of longevity and health, having done over 100+ speaking engagements and appearances.0:00 Intro2:52 How Dr. Darshan Shah Began Studying Longevity9:14 The Next Health Clinic: Cutting-Edge Longevity Science12:11 The Biggest Health Mistake People Don't Realize14:47 Evaluating Biomarkers & Their Clinical Importance20:52 Key Biomarkers to Monitor Inflammation & Uric Acid23:43 Why Uric Acid Matters25:32 Clarifying the Confusion Surrounding Cholesterol29:20 Hormone Levels as a Key Marker of Health (TRT)35:22 Cutting Edge Science: Peptide Therapy 41:54 The Success of These Treatments43:05 Science of Exosome Therapy 44:55 NAD & Stimulating the Mitochondria46:41 Effectiveness of Cryotherapy48:19 How Mainstream Physicians View this Approach50:37 Cognitive Decline52:09 His #1 Health Practice for Longevity53:40 Conclusion====Dr. Darshan Shah is a health optimization expert, board-certified surgeon, and founder of Next Health, the world’s first Health Optimization and Longevity clinic. A graduate of an accelerated MD program, he earned his medical degree at 21 and trained at the Mayo Clinic. With over 20,000 surgeries performed and multiple ventures in the wellness space, Dr. Shah now focuses on helping people extend their healthspan through cutting-edge science and personalized care. He’s also a sought-after speaker and lifelong learner with credentials from Harvard Business School and Singularity University.___________________________Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidperlmutter/Website: https://www.drperlmutter.com/Subscribe to our channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDRl_UAXxbHyOOjklnA0dxQ/?sub_confirmation=1

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  55:35
• How to Make Your Brain Ageless: Prevent Cognitive Decline & Supercharge Your Mind - with Dale Bredesen | EP 197

  🧠 Stay ahead with the latest in science, nutrition, and wellness by subscribing to Dr. Perlmutter’s newsletter at: www.drperlmutter.comThe idea that we can live however we want and then rely on a magic treatment for cognitive issues is unrealistic and dangerous. The reality is that our daily choices profoundly impact our brain’s future, and once cognitive decline begins, there is no clear-cut pharmaceutical solution.I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Dale Bredesen, whose book The Ageless Brain is an incredible resource for protecting brain health. He has pioneered a comprehensive approach to preventing and even reversing cognitive decline. This book offers a powerful blueprint not only for sharpening your mind but also for building resilience against neurodegenerative diseases.In The Ageless Brain, Dr. Bredesen distills decades of research into actionable steps. He explores key lifestyle factors—nutrition, sleep, exercise, stress management, and supplementation—that influence cognitive performance and long-term brain resilience. What’s exciting is his proactive, personalized approach. Rather than waiting for symptoms to appear, Dr. Bredesen shows us how to build a brain that resists aging from the start.Today, we’ll unpack some of the most impactful strategies from his book, discuss major breakthroughs in neuroscience, and explore how we can all take charge of our cognitive health. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to maintain lifelong clarity and vitality, you won’t want to miss this conversation.Dale Bredesen, MD, is an internationally recognized neurologist specializing in neurodegenerative diseases. He is the Senior Director of Precision Brain Health at Pacific Neuroscience Institute® and the Chief Scientific Officer at Apollo Health.Guided by his belief that Alzheimer’s is not just preventable but reversible, Dr. Bredesen’s groundbreaking research has helped explain the biological mechanisms behind memory loss. His decades of study have led to new treatment approaches, including the ReCODE Protocol™—also known as the Bredesen Protocol—a strategy designed to prevent, slow, and even reverse cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and mild cognitive impairment.Timestamps:0:00 Introduction to Guest2:48 Phase 3 Trial Upcoming10:11 Alzheimer’s: Different Triggers, Different Outcomes13:11 Could Brushing Your Teeth Save Your Brain? (Oral Microbiome & Alzheimer’s18:45 The 3 Major Players in Brain Health22:24 How to Make Sure You Never Get Dementia22:33 Blood Markers for Alzheimer’s: What Your Tests Reveal28:10 Diabetes and Alzheimer’s: The Hidden Connection34:18 The #1 Contributor to Cognitive Decline: Insulin Resistance39:54 How to Match Your Brainspan to Your Lifespan40:31 Top Supplements for Brain Health43:15 The Power of Nitric Oxide for Your Brain48:07 Leaky Gut & Cognitive Decline54:15 Metformin & Brain Longevity57:31 Why Do More Men Than Women Get Parkinson’s1:05:24 ADHD & Alzheimer’s: The Fruit Fly Discovery ("Alzflymers")___________________________Dale Bredesen, M.D., is an expert in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. He is a graduate of Caltech and received his MD from Duke University Medical Center. His career includes serving as Chief Resident in Neurology at UCSF, working as an NIH Postdoctoral Fellow, and holding faculty positions at UCSF, UCLA, and UC San Diego. He was the director of the Program on Aging at the Burnham Institute and the founding President and CEO of the Buck Institute. His work has led to a new therapeutic approach for treating Alzheimer’s. He is the author of The End of Alzheimer’s: The First Program to Prevent and Reverse Cognitive Decline.___________________________Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidperlmutter/Website: https://www.drperlmutter.com/Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDRl_UAXxbHyOOjklnA0dxQ/?sub_confirmation=1

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  1:09:07
• The Stress Paradox: How to Harness Pressure for a Stronger, Healthier Life - with Sharon Bergquist | EP 196

  🧠 Stay ahead with the latest in science, nutrition, and wellness by subscribing to Dr. Perlmutter’s newsletter at: www.drperlmutter.com. ✉️🌱Yes, we need stress in our lives! Staying in our comfort zone may be doing us more harm than good. That’s probably surprising to hear from me having spoken about the importance of reducing stress over the years. But, nonetheless, a level of stress that is not overly damaging, and that may actually have positive benefits. Today we are going to learn much more about that will be looking at the book, The Stress Paradox with Dr. Sharon Horesh Bergquist. We're going to learn about the"Stress dilemma" that we face, how stress enhances, cellular resilience, how our life compares to the lives of our ancestors in terms of the physical stresses that we endure. We will explore how stressing ourselves in relation to the times that we eat, our physical exercise, and even explore how sleep or lack of sleep, may affect us in negative and even perhaps positive ways. All in all, we"re learning these days how we want to do our best to leverage the value of being out of our comfort zone but also recognizing ourboundaries. 00:00 Introduction02:00 Welcoming Sharon and Introducing The Stress Paradox06:33 Sleep is Critical07:12 Good Stress (HIIT) vs. Bad Stress (Financial Hardship)09:50 Hormetic Stress? Current Environment vs. Ancestors' Stress Levels13:20 Stress Responses Stored in Phytochemicals and our Evolutionary Relationship with Plants19:01 10,000 DNA Injuries Any Given Day, 7 Per Minute22:03 The Biggest Factor Related to Longevity26:01 Relationship with Decreased Risk of Alzheimer’s & The Role of Myokines30:17 Microglia Cells Can Share Mitochondria (Before & After)35:13 Heat Exposure Mimics the Benefits of Exercise38:01 Key Strategies for Longevity and Vitality45:32 Personalized Health Strategies for Optimal Performance50:25: The Cortisol Spike and Why It is Necessary 58:20 Why You Need Non-negotiables In Your Physiology50:20 Conclusion====Sharon Horesh Bergquist, MD, is an award-winning physician, innovative healthcare leader, and visionary researcher renowned for spearheading a science-based approach to applying lifestyle as medicine. She has helped lead numerous clinical trials, including the Emory Healthy Aging Study and the NIH funded Emory Healthy Brain Study. Dr. Bergquist is widely published in peer-reviewed journals and has contributed to over 200 news___________________________Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidperlmutter/Website: https://www.drperlmutter.com/Subscribe to our channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDRl_UAXxbHyOOjklnA0dxQ/?sub_confirmation=1

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