The Better Brain Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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The Better Brain Podcast

Drs. Rafie and Bickart

Health & Fitness

Frequency: 1 episode/53d. Total Eps: 12

Welcome to the Better Brain Podcast, your source on all things brain health and how to make it better.

We're your hosts, Drs. Rafie and Bickart, and we are Neurologists specializing in Neuropsychiatry, Dementia, Sports, and Traumatic Brain Injury.

Our mission at the Better Brain Podcast is to provide you with the information and tools you need to improve your brain health and overall well being. We do this by combining the latest evidence-based practices with practical tools to better your brain. Our episodes feature experts and high level performers that will help us navigate this complex and nuanced field, with a goal of attaining a firm grasp on these topics.

Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking to expand your knowledge, a individual concerned about your risk of dementia, a creative looking for inspiration, or simply a curious soul eager to learn more about the brain, the Better Brain Podcast is your trusted companion.

Subscribe for UNRELEASED CONTENT and more at: The Better Brain Podcast

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Apple Podcasts

🇬🇧 Great Britain - healthAndFitness
07/06/2025
#97
🇬🇧 Great Britain - healthAndFitness
06/06/2025
#75

Spotify

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Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://youtu.be/fNAEsWNMiUM
24 shares
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReaATQj1hPc&amp
22 shares
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83MsHM12zT8&amp
17 shares

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RSS feed quality

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Score global : 42%

Publication history

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Latest published episodes

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UNFILTERED Truth On Seed Oils: Science-Based Gut Health Tools l Tim Spector, MD & Sarah Berry, PhD

Wednesday, May 28, 2025 • Duration 02:12:25

In this episode of the Better Brain Podcast, neurologists Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart sit down with two leading experts in nutrition science: Sarah Berry, lead nutritional scientist at Zoe, and Tim Spector, renowned epidemiologist, author, and co-founder of Zoe.

We dive into the complex world of nutrition research, exploring:

Why traditional studies in nutrition are so flawed

How Zoe is changing the game with personalized data

The real story behind seed oils and social media myths

Why gut health directly affects your brain and mood

Practical tips for what to eat, when to eat, and how to improve overall wellness

And... a blind yogurt taste test — can experts pick the healthiest option based on just the label?

This is a must-watch for anyone serious about brain health, nutrition, and cutting through the noise online.

Connect with the us:
Instagram: @betterbrainpod @adel.neuro
X: @betterbrainpod

Visit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter.

Visit Our Sponsor's website: Contactmedicalservices.com

🔗 Links & Resources:

👤 Tim Spector:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.spector
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/timspector

📘 Buy Tim's New Book – Food for Life:
https://www.amazon.com/Food-Life-Cookbook-author/dp/1787335232

👩‍🔬 Sarah Berry:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarahberry

🎧 Zoe Science & Nutrition Podcast:
https://link.chtbl.com/p1ggKgOA

🌐 Learn more about Zoe and their personalized nutrition approach:
https://joinzoe.com

👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more conversations that bridge the gap between neuroscience, nutrition, and everyday health!

#GutHealth #BrainHealth #NutritionScience #Zoe #TimSpector #SarahBerry #BetterBrainPodcast #Neurology #MentalHealth #SeedOils #FoodForLife #YogurtTasteTest #neuroscience #diet #podcast #interview #fyp

To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://youtu.be/fNAEsWNMiUM

For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.com

Connect with us on social media:
Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod
Twitter: @ahdelneuro

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

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Prevent Dementia by Modifying THESE Risk Factors: Cut Dementia Risk by 50%

Monday, March 31, 2025 • Duration 01:30:52

Join Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart for an discussion dementia and the modifiable risk factors that could help prevent or ward off the diagnosis. The duo cover how dementia is diagnosed, what brain imaging demonstrates in dementia, and the most significant risk factors for developing dementia and how to address certain of these risk factors to aid in the prevention of dementia.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro
3:17 – Dementia is Growing
5:03 – What is Dementia?
10:43 – Psychological Disorders and Prodromal Theories
13:56 – Normal Aging and Memory Loss
21:34 – When should patients be concerned?
23:00 – Age-Related Brain Volume Loss
25:20 – Diagnosing Dementia
28:40 – Lewy Body Dementia
29:47– Genetics
33:02- MRIs of Alzheimer Patients
42:06 – Young Onset Dementia Paper
54:37 - Hand Grip Strength
57:24 - Sleep
- Vitamin D - Strength of the Study, Final Remarks - Deprivation of Stimulation (Hearing Impairment, Vision Loss, Social Isolation) - 14 Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia Across the Board - What Can Be Done Today to Visualize Dementia Risk - Things we can do now to reduce dementia risk - How to measure cardiovascular fitness - Brain health assessment - Conclusion

Revolutionizing Mental Health: The Brain Energy Theory l Chris Palmer, MD | Part A

Season 1 · Episode 2

Friday, October 27, 2023 • Duration 01:20:58

Visit https://www.brainsportpodcast.com to subscribe to the BrainSPORT Podcast and access exclusive content unavailable elsewhere.

Join host Adel in this UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast episode featuring Dr. Chris Palmer, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the author of the best-selling book, Brain Energy. In part A of this two-part series, they dissect the Brain Energy Theory for Mental Illness.

The pair assesses the current state of mental illness diagnosis and management, emphasizing certain shortcomings.

The heart of the discussion is the Brain Energy Theory. The duo explore how mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in mental illness and the evidence to substantiate this theory.

Delve into this scientific journey with Adel and Dr. Chris Palmer, as they discuss a new potential paradigm of mental health.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Unlocking the Secrets of Dopamine: Breaking Bad Habits, Mental Health, and Addiction Recovery with Dr. Anna Lembke

Season 1 · Episode 1

Sunday, October 22, 2023 • Duration 01:10:33

In this thought-provoking episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, host Adel delves into the enigmatic world of the dopamine neurotransmitter and its profound implications for mental health and addiction. Join us as we welcome the distinguished Dr. Anna Lembke, a psychiatrist at Stanford University and the celebrated author of the New York Times bestseller, "Dopamine Nation."

Dr. Lembke, a recognized expert in the field, offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted role of dopamine in our lives. Together, they navigate the intricate relationship between this powerful neurotransmitter, mental illness, and the pervasive grip of addiction on our society.

In this episode, we peel back the layers of dopamine's influence, from its crucial role in motivation to its darker side in the realm of addiction and withdrawal. Dr. Lembke generously shares her insights into the underlying mechanisms that fuel these processes, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of how dopamine shapes our behaviors and choices.

However, it's not all theory and scientific jargon. Our dynamic duo doesn't just uncover the mysteries; they also provide actionable strategies to help break free from the clutches of bad habits and addiction. With Dr. Lembke as your guide, you'll gain invaluable tools to navigate this complex neurochemical landscape and regain control of your own well-being.

Join us on this journey as we explore the fascinating interplay of dopamine, mental health, and addiction. In a world where these topics have never been more relevant, this episode offers not only insights but hope for a brighter, healthier future. Don't miss this opportunity to unravel the complexities of the brain and its impact on your life.

To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://youtu.be/fNAEsWNMiUM

For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - Podcast - Twitter:

Simple Tools to Manage Your Stress Today and the Resiliency Myth l Aditi Nerurkar, MD

Monday, February 24, 2025 • Duration 01:03:17

Join Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart for an important discussion on stress with Dr. Aditi Neurukar MD, MPH, a renowned Harvard-trained doctor specializing in stress, public speaker, and best-selling author. Check out her book: The 5 Resets, a reimagined approach to transform your stress and burnout for good.

In this episode, Dr. Neurukar defines stress, and how it can progress from healthy to unhealthy. She shares why humans have the need to stay on their phones, and the debilitating effects of doom scrolling. She also breaks the myth that multitasking is beneficial, and discusses the importance of listening to your body, offering 5 mindset shifts to reduce and manage stress.

The Five Resets: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063289210/keywords=self%20help%20books?tag=harpercollinsus-20

Dr. Aditi Neurukar Website: https://www.draditi.com/

Visit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter.

For more information on our Sponsor, Contact Medical Services, Check out their website: https://www.contactmedicalservices.com/

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Personalized Diet & Nutrition Tips to Promote Your Microbiome and Longevity | Federica Amati, PhD

Tuesday, January 21, 2025 • Duration 02:51:53

On this episode of the Better Brain Podcast, Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart chat with Dr. Frederica Amati, head nutritionist at Zoe, the science and nutrition company. She is also a best-selling author, with her new book, Every Body Should Know This, being described as a fascinating DIY guide to food and health.

In this episode, Dr. Amati shares insights on early childhood interventions and building a healthy food environment, exploring the connection between the gut microbiome, nutrition, and mental health. She emphasizes the benefits of maintaining a balanced diet and how eating well at any age can increase lifespan and quality of life. She also discusses the importance of listening to your body and its hunger or fullness cues to create a healthy relationship with food, as well as the difference between processed/unprocessed foods and their nutrition levels.

For a deeper dive into the gut microbiome, listen to the Zoe Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/p1ggKgOA

To Purchase Dr. Amati's new book visit:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Every-Body-Should-Know-This/dp/0241679613/

Watch this episode:
https://youtu.be/isLi8ZQVY44

Connect with the Better Brain Podcast:
Instagram: @betterbrainpod @adel.neuro
X: @betterbrainpod

Visit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter.

00:00 - Beginning
2:14 – The Origin Story
10:07 – Microbiome and Mental Health
14:30 – The Microbiome as a Representation of our Environment
23:07 – Ultra Processed Foods
27:09 – Direct effect of ultra-processed foods on the gut
35:14 – The Gut Brain Axis (How Ultra-Processed Foods Influence Mental Health and Brain Health)
42:29 – The Microbiome and Diet through Childhood, Breast Milk, Weaning
56:24 - The Home Food Environment
1:00:37 – Processed vs Ultra-Processed Foods
1:07:36 – Dairy Impact on Gut Health
1:12:51 – Saturated Fats, Low Fat Foods, and Cholesterol
1:18:37 – Processed Vs. Unprocessed Meat
1:24:32 – The Carnivore Diet1:32:42 – Protein Intake, Retaining Muscle, Increasing Longevity 1:38:55 – Sugars and Salts (Not all Sugars are the Same)1:47:37 – Blended Foods1:51:47 – Counting Calories and Calorie Restriction1:59:57 – GLP – agonists02:10:44 – Hope after 40 (How diet can increase health span)2:18:01 – The Pleasure of Eating and Intuitive Eating2:24:22 – Track your Microbiome Health 2:32:11 – The Grocery Store Run2:50:10 – Outro#microbiome #gutmicrobiome #nutrition #diet #calories #caloriedeficit #carnivorediet #processedfoods #protein #mentalhealth #brainhealth #podcast #interview

6 Easy Ways to Nurture Your Gut Microbiome and Brain l Tim Spector, MD, PhD

Saturday, December 21, 2024 • Duration 01:18:11

Drs. Daniel Rafie and Dr. Kevin Bickart examine gut and brain health with Dr. Tim Spector.

Dr. Spector is a Professor of Epidemiology at King’s College London and scientific co-founder of ZOE, the science and nutrition company. He is the bestselling author of The Diet Myth, Spoon-Fed and Food for Life. The original pioneer of microbiome research, he is among the top 100 most-cited scientists in the world.

In this episode, Dr. Spector discusses the importance of the gut microbiome to various aspects of health including disease, neurodevelopmental disorders, and mental illness. He discusses easy changes that can be made in the diet in order to increase diversity of plants consumed, and improve gut microbiome health. Furthermore, he debunks common myths about sugar, saturated fats, and processed meats, emphasizing the importance of food quality over quantity. He also explains why a Mediterranean-style diet is ideal for overall health and how these small dietary changes can lead to a healthy gut microbiome and improve mood and energy.

For a deeper dive into the gut microbiome, listen to the Zoe Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/p1ggKgOA

Visit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter.

To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://youtu.be/fNAEsWNMiUM

For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - Podcast - Twitter:

Neurogenetics: Genetics of Neuropsychiatric Illness and Genetic - Based Treatments l Daniel Geschwind, MD

Season 1 · Episode 7

Tuesday, July 2, 2024 • Duration 01:17:24

On this episode, we are honored to have Dr. Daniel Geschwind, a renowned expert in neurogenetics, join us for a compelling conversation.

Dr. Geschwind holds the prestigious titles of Gordon and Virginia MacDonald Distinguished Professor of Human Genetics, Neurology and Psychiatry at UCLA. He is also the Senior Associate Dean and Associate Vice Chancellor of Precision Health. In this episode, he shares his profound insights into the intersection of neurogenetics with neuropsychiatric diseases and traumatic brain injuries.

Together, we delve into the exciting world of neurogenetics, exploring how this rapidly evolving field is transforming the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions. Dr. Geschwind discusses current advancements, innovative applications and future directions in neurogenetics, providing a comprehensive understanding of its impact on precision health.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

The Better Brain Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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The Better Brain Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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