Healing Brains: How Omega-3s Can Prevent And Repair The Brain Dr. Michael Lewis

09/19/24 • 94 min

In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Michael Lewis, renowned expert in brain health and traumatic brain injury (TBI), and author of the groundbreaking book, When Brains Collide. Dr. Lewis is the founder of the Brain Health Education and Research Institute and BrainCARE. With a military background and extensive experience in traumatic brain injuries, Dr. Lewis has dedicated his career to exploring how omega-3 fish oils can play a vital role in preventing and recovering from concussions, TBI, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases. Key Discussion Points 1. The Role of Omega-3 Fish Oils in Brain Health Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), the primary omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, are crucial for maintaining brain structure and function. Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective, making them vital in protecting the brain from injury and supporting recovery. 2. High-Dose Omega-3 Fish Oil for Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Dr. Lewis emphasizes how high-dose fish oil can help mitigate damage following a concussion or TBI. Dosing Protocols: In acute brain injury cases, Dr. Lewis recommends significantly higher doses of fish oil (e.g., up to 3-9 grams of combined DHA and EPA per day) to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and restore brain cell membrane integrity. Case studies demonstrate remarkable improvements in TBI patients, including quicker recovery times, reduced brain fog, and restored cognitive function. 3. Fish Oils for Neurodegeneration and Stroke Prevention Regular intake of omega-3s is shown to be effective in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Omega-3s help prevent stroke by reducing blood clot formation, improving vascular health, and lowering inflammation in brain tissues. Dr. Lewis advocates for omega-3s as part of a preventive strategy, particularly for aging individuals at higher risk of neurodegenerative conditions. 4. Using Omega-3s as Preventive Medicine Consistent omega-3 supplementation is not just for recovery—it's crucial for maintaining optimal brain health. Athletes, military personnel, and individuals at risk for head trauma should use omega-3s proactively to strengthen their brain's resilience to injury. Preventative Dosing: Dr. Lewis suggests a daily intake of at least 2-3 grams of DHA and EPA combined for ongoing brain health and injury prevention. 5. How to Choose a High-Quality Fish Oil Dr. Lewis explains the criteria for identifying a high-quality fish oil supplement: Purity: Free from contaminants like heavy metals and toxins. Potency: Look for a high concentration of DHA and EPA. Stability: Avoid fish oils that oxidize easily, as rancid oils can be harmful. Sourcing: Prefer fish oils sourced from wild-caught, sustainably harvested fish. Importance of third-party testing to ensure the product is safe and effective. 6. Personal Stories and Case Studies Dr. Lewis shares inspiring stories of patients and athletes who have successfully used omega-3 therapy to recover from brain injuries. Examples include a football player who recovered from multiple concussions and a stroke survivor who regained cognitive function with high-dose omega-3 supplementation. 7. How to Use Omega-3s After Brain Injury Immediate supplementation following a brain injury can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes. The sooner omega-3s are introduced post-injury, the better. Dr. Lewis provides insight into the timing and administration of omega-3 supplements during the acute phase of brain injury treatment. Recommended Resources: Dr. Michael Lewis's Website: Brain Health Education and Research Institute: http://www.brainhealtheducation.org/ BrainCARE: BrainCARE Center When Brains Collide Book Join us for this enlightening discussion on the powerful benefits of omega-3 fish oils for brain protection, recovery, and overall health. Dr. Michael Lewis's pioneering work is transforming how we approach brain injuries and neurodegeneration, highlighting the critical role that nutrition and supplementation play in maintaining cognitive vitality. Tune in to learn how you can harness the power of omega-3s for your brain health and optimize your recovery from injury or disease.

BIO

Michael Lewis, MD, MPH, MBA, FACPM, FACN, is a proven leader and expert in the treatment and management of concussions and brain injuries. He also applies his holistic approach to Men's Health and outpatient orthopedics. Upon retiring as a Colonel in the U.S. Army, he founded the nonprofit Brain Health Education and Research Institute and entered private practice focusing on helping patients with chr...

BIO

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Unveiling The Secret To Longevity: 1-MNA And The NAD Pathway With Courtney Van Bussum

In this episode, we dive deep into the science of longevity with Courtney Van Bussum, COO of Longevity Launch Labs. Courtney shares her insights on the NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) pathway, a critical component in the aging process and how we can leverage it for longevity optimization. We explore the fascinating molecule 1-MNA (1-Methylnicotinamide), its unique role in the body, and how it helps lower levels of the NNMT (Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) enzyme, which is associated with various age-related diseases and metabolic disorders.

Key Topics Discussed:

Introduction to the NAD Pathway:
- Overview of the NAD pathway and its significance in cellular metabolism and aging.
- The role of NAD+ in DNA repair, energy production, and maintaining cellular health.
Understanding 1-MNA (1-Methylnicotinamide):
- What is 1-MNA, and what is it's role in the NAD story.
- The unique properties of 1-MNA and its potential as a longevity molecule.
The NNMT Enzyme and Its Implications for Health:
- Explanation of NNMT (Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) and its impact on metabolic health and aging.
- How elevated NNMT levels are linked to obesity, cancer, diabetes, and other age-related diseases.
How 1-MNA Lowers NNMT Levels:
- The mechanism by which 1-MNA reduces NNMT activity, promoting healthier aging.
- Potential benefits of 1-MNA in reducing inflammation, improving metabolism, and supporting overall health.
How the immune system and NAD pathways are both key to longevity and health optimisation and how we can leverage and optimise both as we age.
Longevity Optimization Strategies:
- How targeting the NAD pathway and modulating NNMT activity can be part of a comprehensive longevity strategy.
- Practical tips for integrating 1-MNA and other NAD-boosting supplements into your daily routine.
Courtney's Vision for the Future of Longevity Research:
- Insights into the latest developments at Longevity Launch Labs.
- The future of NAD research and its potential to revolutionize aging and healthcare.

If you want to supplement 1-MNA you can now get it in our Longevity and Anti-Aging store

Bio

Courtney Van Bussum is a dynamic entrepreneur and business leader who currently serves as the COO of Longevity Launch Labs, a pioneering incubator focused on advancing the Cellular and Longevity Medicine sectors. With a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Arizona State University, Barrett Honors College, Courtney has overseen several startups in the healthcare and medical arenas ranging from fitness applications to wearable medical devices. Her early career began as a strategy consultant in Scottsdale, Arizona where she honed her skills by working with Fortune 500 companies and startups, streamlining processes and driving innovation.

In 2020, Courtney joined the Boulder Longevity Institute, where she played a crucial role in enhancing the institute's core technology and operational systems. Two years later, she co-founded Longevity Launch Labs, where she has been instrumental in building the operational frameworks that have propelled the incubator to become a key connector in the industry. Under her leadership, Longevity Launch Labs offers a range of services including product co-formulation and development, distribution, product rollout strategy, and mentorship, all aimed at supporting companies and healthcare practitioners in the rapidly evolving field of longevity medicine. Through Launch's Longevity Impact Fund, Courtney also helps early-stage startups access key capital to further development of their healthcare innovations. Having grown up around the world of medicine, Courtney understands that changing healthcare can only be achieved through creating innovative parallel systems that improve outcomes and experience. Her visionary leadership and deep expertise make her an invaluable voice in the conversation around healthcare innovation and longevity.

Subscribe to our podcast for more expert insights on longevity, health optimization, and cutting-edge research.
Visit Longevity Launch Labs' website for more information on 1-MNA and other groundbreaking research initiatives.
Connect with us on social media and share your thoughts on this episode using the hashtag #1-MNA

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Precision Psychiatry & Holistic Mental Health With Dr. Mizyl Damayo

In this insightful episode, we are joined by Dr. Mizyl Damayo, a holistic psychiatrist and founder of **Paradise Behavioral Health. Dr. Damayo specializes in precision psychiatry, an approach that goes beyond traditional psychiatric treatments to address the underlying causes of mental health disorders. She combines modern science with integrative, holistic therapies to deliver customized care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Key Topics Covered: * Precision Psychiatry: - What it is and why it's revolutionizing mental health treatment. *Nutrient Deficiencies and Toxicities: - How imbalances in essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can contribute to mental health issues, and how correcting these imbalances leads to improved brain function. *Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): The critical role hormones play in mood regulation, anxiety, and depression, and why balancing hormones is essential for mental wellness. *Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT): - A deep dive into how HBOT supports brain function, helps repair neural damage, and promotes overall mental clarity and emotional balance. *Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): - How TMS is offering new hope for treatment-resistant depression by using magnetic pulses to stimulate brain regions involved in mood regulation. *The Limitations of Traditional Drug Therapy: - Why relying solely on medications to treat psychiatric conditions often fails to address the root causes of mental health issues, leading to incomplete or temporary relief. Ailments Dr. Damayo Treats: Dr. Damayo works with a wide range of psychiatric and neurological conditions, including:

Depression** (including treatment-resistant depression)
Anxiety disorders
Bipolar disorder
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Chronic fatigue and brain fog
Cognitive decline and memory issues

Her precision psychiatry approach focuses on identifying the root causes of these disorders rather than just managing symptoms with medications. By uncovering nutrient deficiencies, toxicities (such as heavy metals), hormonal imbalances, and even neural damage, Dr. Damayo's approach offers a **whole-person** treatment plan that leads to more sustained mental and physical health. Why the Traditional Drug Approach Isn't Enough: For decades, the standard treatment for mental health disorders has been primarily **pharmaceutical drugs**. While these medications can provide symptom relief, they often fail to address the underlying causes of mental health conditions. Patients may experience side effects, dependence, or only partial relief. Dr. Damayo believes that while drugs can be part of the treatment, they should not be the only approach. By focusing on the root causes—such as nutrient imbalances, toxic buildup, and hormonal fluctuations—Dr. Damayo is able to offer a more comprehensive and effective solution. Her practice also emphasizes natural healing methods, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and ranscranial magnetic stimulation, which can significantly enhance brain health and recovery. Advanced Therapies Explained: *Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT): - By delivering oxygen under high pressure, HBOT increases oxygen levels in the brain, which helps heal damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells). This therapy has been particularly beneficial for patients with cognitive issues, brain fog, and trauma-related conditions. * Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): - TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that stimulates specific areas of the brain using magnetic pulses. It has shown remarkable success in treating depression, especially in cases where antidepressants have failed. TMS is also being explored for conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. Dr. Damayo's Unique Approach: Dr. Damayo's **precision psychiatry** integrates lab testing to identify deficiencies, environmental toxins, and other imbalances that could be contributing to mental health issues. Her personalized treatment plans may include **nutrient supplementation**, **detoxification protocols**, **hormone replacement**, and advanced therapies like HBOT and TMS. This **holistic model** looks at both the **mental and physical** aspects of health, understanding that the two are deeply interconnected. Mental health is complex, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Mizyl Damayo's innovative approach offers hope to those who have struggled with traditional treatments by focusing on the root causes of psychiatric conditions. Her **holistic and personalized** methods are helping patients achieve not just symptom relief, but true healing and long-term wellness. For more information about Dr. Damayo's practice and her unique precision psychiatry approach, visit her website at [Paradise Behavioral Health](