Are you ready to take your brain health to the next level? Look no further than The Well Nurtured Brain, the ultimate podcast for all things brain-related!
Hosted by Dr. Pamela Hutchison, a Naturopathic Physician with over 20 years of experience in mental and neurological health care, this podcast covers everything from nutrition and exercise to sleep and stress management.
You'll discover easy and surprising ways to nourish your brain, and learn evidence-based tools for improving memory, focus, and cognitive performance. But that's not all - Dr. Hutchison and her guests delve into the latest research on mood and neurological disorders, providing valuable insights into prevention, treatment, and management.
Whether you want to optimize your brain health, manage a condition, or simply learn more about neuroscience, The Well Nurtured Brain is the podcast for you. Don't miss out - tune in now and start nurturing your brain today!
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Brain Talks: Optimizing Cognitive Performance through Vision with Dr. McCrodan
Season 2 · Episode 4
Tuesday, February 18, 2025 • Duration 42:07
In this eye-opening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pam welcomes Dr. Cameron McCrodan, an optometrist and leading expert in neurovisual performance. Together, they explore how our eyes and brain work in tandem - not just to see clearly, but influencing everything from dizziness and migraines to reading, focus, and mental stamina. Dr. McCrodan explains why traditional eye exams often miss crucial elements of visual function, how modern life places unnatural demands on our vision, and how we can improve cognitive performance and overall well-being through our vision care.
About Dr. McCrodan: Dr. Cam McCrodan is an optometrist and leading expert in neurovisual performance, known for bringing an engineering mindset to optometry. With a foundation in engineering, Dr. McCrodan takes a systematic and innovative approach to understanding the intricate connection between the eyes and brain. His groundbreaking work focuses on how this system impacts various conditions and symptoms, such as:
Concussions and their lingering effects
ADHD and dyslexia
Migraines and headaches
Chronic dizziness and balance problems
Cognitive fatigue and reduced focus
Dr. McCrodan’s approach goes beyond traditional eye care, addressing key visual functions like binocular vision, eye tracking, depth perception, and visual-vestibular integration. By improving these areas, he helps patients reduce cognitive strain and enhance performance in reading, focus, and concentration. As well as cognitive performance and mental stamina, which will enhance every day living and daily tasks. Through his innovative clinic, Opto-mization Optometry, Dr. McCrodan provides tailored treatments that transform lives by treating the root causes of visual dysfunction. His unique blend of technical expertise and patient-centered care offers solutions that optimize both brain and visual performance. Connect with Dr McCrodan: Website: https://optomize.ca/ Instagram: @optomize.vision TedTalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0pljgXZ_GA
Brain Talks: The Complexities of Chronic Pain with Aaron Jones, MPT
Season 2 · Episode 3
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 • Duration 52:07
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain we are joined by Aaron Jones to discuss the intricate world of chronic pain, exploring how it affects every facet of life—from physical limitations to emotional resilience. We take a closer look at the often-overlooked connection between chronic pain and sleep disruptions, shedding light on the challenges of getting restorative rest when pain feels relentless.
Our discussion also features a deep dive into Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a complex and often misunderstood condition that adds unique layers to the experience of chronic pain. Aaron is a physiotherapist working in Victoria BC with a special interest in EDS. With insights including personal stories, and practical strategies, this conversation aims to educate, validate, and empower listeners navigating these challenges.
Whether you’re living with chronic pain, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the science and lived experience of these conditions, this episode offers a compassionate and insightful perspective. Join us as we unpack the realities, break down the myths, and explore pathways to hope and healing.
Connect with Aaron Jones:
Aaron earned a Master Degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney, Australia. Prior to that, he graduated with a Bachelor degree in Exercise Science and Rehabilitation from the University of Wollongong, Australia. Aaron has been a registered practicing physiotherapist throughout Australia, in New York City and right here in British Columbia.
Aaron is passionate about musculoskeletal physiotherapy with a special focus in chronic pain, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Functional Neurological Disorder. You can find Aaron at Acacia Health in Victoria BC
System Malfunction: Navigating the Hidden Impact of Dysautonomia
Season 2 · Episode 2
Tuesday, January 21, 2025 • Duration 37:42
Join Dr. Pamela Hutchison, in our first official episode of season 2. In this episode she uncovers the mysterious world of dysautonomia and its connection to long COVID and POTS. In this enlightening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Hutchison breaks down the complexities of the autonomic nervous system going awry, revealing how its dysfunction can lead to a wide range of challenging symptoms. From understanding the basics of blood pressure regulation to exploring examples of those affected, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the lingering effects of long COVID. Tune in to uncover the hidden impacts on your nervous system.
To access bonus content please subscribe to our newsletter via website listed below.
Vernino S, Bourne KM, Stiles LE, et al. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS): State of the science and clinical care from a 2019 National Institutes of Health Expert Consensus Meeting - Part 1. . 2021;235:102828. doi:10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102828
The Opportunities in Struggle: A Sneak Peek at Season 2
Season 2 · Episode 1
Tuesday, January 7, 2025 • Duration 06:58
Welcome back to The Well Nurtured Brain!
In this exciting Season 2 premiere, Dr. Pamela Hutchison, a seasoned naturopathic doctor with 25 years of experience, returns to share updates and insights into brain, mental, and neurological health.
After a challenging year, Dr. Pam reflects on the opportunities that can arise from life's struggles and previews an enriching lineup of topics and guest experts. From demystifying dysautonomia and exploring exercise's impact on multiple sclerosis to uncovering the science behind brain health supplements, this season promises valuable content for your journey to optimal health. Tune in and discover how to turn challenges into growth.
Brain Talks: Navigating Blood Sugar with Dr. Jaime
Season 1 · Episode 21
Wednesday, December 27, 2023 • Duration 48:33
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison sits down with Dr. Jaime de Melo, a fellow naturopathic doctor and the co-founder of Evolve Medical, to discuss the intricate world of blood sugar regulation and its profound impact on our brain health. From the basics of insulin resistance to the far-reaching consequences of blood sugar dysregulation, Dr. Jaime shares invaluable insights and practical advice on maintaining balance, and how this has far reaching effects on brain health over time.
Whether you're navigating diabetes, seeking preventive measures, or simply curious about optimizing your health, this episode could transform the way you think about your body and your health.
About Dr. Jaime de Melo ND
Dr. Jaime de Melo (he/him) is passionate about helping people learn to self-manage chronic health conditions through lifestyle medicine. He is a co-founder of Evolve Medical, a company empowering people to live healthier and happier lives through technology, behavioural science and customized lifestyle medicine.
Inflammatory Insights: Discussing the possible correlation between inflammation and depression
Season 1 · Episode 20
Tuesday, December 12, 2023 • Duration 34:37
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, join Dr. Pamela Hutchison as she geeks out over the intriguing link between inflammation and depression. While discussing the current research, she simplifies the science for easy understanding.
Expect to revisit this compelling topic in future episodes as more research emerges. Meanwhile, savor the valuable insights shared in this episode – there are some truly enlightening nuggets waiting for you.
Nedic Erjavec G, Sagud M, Nikolac Perkovic M, et al. Depression: Biological markers and treatment. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 2021;105:110139. doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110139
Usnich, T., Hauptmann, B., Hanssen, H. et al. Depressive symptoms in Parkinson’s disease are insufficiently but more often treated than in other chronic conditions. npj Parkinsons Dis. 9, 113 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-023-00551-8
Kofod J, Elfving B, Nielsen EH, Mors O, Köhler-Forsberg O. Depression and inflammation: Correlation between changes in inflammatory markers with antidepressant response and long-term prognosis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2022;54:116-125. doi:10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.09.006
The Leafy Truth: Exploring the Efficacy of Greens Powder
Season 1 · Episode 19
Tuesday, October 31, 2023 • Duration 24:55
In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison ND will compare greens powders to their natural, leafy counterparts.
Join Dr. Pamela as she explores the pros and cons of both options. Are greens powders truly the ultimate solution for those on-the-go or in need of an extra boost of nutrients, or can nothing replace the goodness of whole, leafy greens?
Zhang J, Oxinos G, Maher JH. The effect of fruit and vegetable powder mix on hypertensive subjects: a pilot study. J Chiropr Med. 2009 Sep;8(3):101-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jcm.2008.09.004. PMID: 19703665; PMCID: PMC2732245.
Nutrients and bioactives in green leafy vegetables and cognitive decline: Prospective study.
Morris MC, Wang Y, Barnes LL, Bennett DA, Dawson-Hughes B, Booth SL. Neurology. 2018 Jan 16;90(3):e214-e222.
doi: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000004815.
Associations of vegetable and fruit consumption with age-related cognitive change.
Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines Part 2
Season 1 · Episode 18
Tuesday, October 17, 2023 • Duration 45:07
Welcome to the conclusion of Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines on the Well Nurtured Brain. In our first part of this two part series we discussed the true nature of migraines, their impact on those who suffer from them, and why they're so much more than just a headache.
In this anticipated final instalment Dr. Pamela Hutchison will guide us through a number of studies that dissect the effectiveness of well known approaches to reducing the pain, frequency and duration of migraines. Some of the results may surprise you!
Migraine, Brain Glucose Metabolism and the "Neuroenergetic" Hypothesis: A Scoping Review Lorenzo Del Moro 1, Eugenia Rota , , DOI:
Brain Talks: Exploring Persistent Pain with Dr. Richard McIlmoyle
Season 1 · Episode 17
Tuesday, October 3, 2023 • Duration 01:05:30
In this episode of The Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison is joined by Dr. Richard McIlmoyle, a chiropractor from Victoria with more than two decades of expertise. Together, they discuss the nature of pain and its management, as Dr. Richard shares his perspective on pain as an embodied phenomena.
About Dr. Richard McIlmoyle:
Dr Richard McIlmoyle is a chiropractor with over 24 years of experience. He utilizes the most current science regarding pain and biomechanics to guide his treatment, using multiple manual therapies to promote changes with his patients. His goal when treating patients is to maintain or return them to activities that they enjoy, as it is the best supported intervention when it comes to relieving pain (whether that be recent injury or persisting pain.) Understanding that our body is a robust and adaptable system helps the elite athlete to perform at their best and exercisers to enjoy daily activities.
Treating individuals experiencing persistent pain has become one of his areas of focus, due to its debilitating effects on our population and the poor understanding that most practitioners have of the biopsychosocial framework of pain.
In the upcoming month, Dr. McIlmoyle will be sharing his expertise in Vancouver, where he'll be instructing on "Trauma and Psychologically Informed Pain Care for Manual and Exercise Therapists." Additionally, in November, he will be conducting a course in Victoria titled "Advanced Pain Care for Practitioners."
The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/
Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines Part 1
Season 1 · Episode 16
Tuesday, September 19, 2023 • Duration 35:50
Welcome to a highly requested two-part series on the Well Nurtured Brain. Join Dr. Pamela as she digs into the world of migraines, shedding light on their intriguing facets. Gain insight into the true nature of migraines, their impact on those who suffer from them, and why they're so much more than just a headache.
Stay tuned for the second installment of this series on October 17th where Dr. Pamela will guide you through effective strategies for coping with migraine attacks.
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Kent, P., Haines, T., O'Sullivan, P., Smith, A., Campbell, A., Schutze, R., Attwell, S., Caneiro, J. P., Laird, R., O'Sullivan, K., McGregor, A., Hartvigsen, J., Lee, D. A., Vickery, A., Hancock, M., & RESTORE trial team (2023). Cognitive functional therapy with or without movement sensor biofeedback versus usual care for chronic, disabling low back pain (RESTORE): a randomised, controlled, three-arm, parallel group, phase 3, clinical trial. Lancet (London, England), 401(10391), 1866–1877. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00441-5
Oslo Chronic Fatigue Consortium, Alme, T. N., Andreasson, A., Asprusten, T. T., Bakken, A. K., Beadsworth, M. B., Boye, B., Brodal, P. A., Brodwall, E. M., Brurberg, K. G., Bugge, I., Chalder, T., Due, R., Eriksen, H. R., Fink, P. K., Flottorp, S. A., Fors, E. A., Jensen, B. F., Fundingsrud, H. P., Garner, P., … Wyller, V. B. B. (2023). Chronic fatigue syndromes: real illnesses that people can recover from. Scandinavian journal of primary health care, 41(4), 372–376. https://doi.org/10.1080/02813432.2023.2235609
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Kleinridders A, Cai W, Cappellucci L, Ghazarian A, Collins WR, Vienberg SG, Pothos EN, Kahn CR. Insulin resistance in brain alters dopamine turnover and causes behavioral disorders. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2015 Mar 17;112(11):3463-8. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1500877112. Epub 2015 Mar 2. PMID: 25733901; PMCID: PMC4371978.
He D, Aleksic S. Is it time to repurpose geroprotective diabetes medications for prevention of dementia? J Am Geriatr Soc. 2023 Jul;71(7):2041-2045. doi: 10.1111/jgs.18405. Epub 2023 May 25. PMID: 37227136; PMCID: PMC10524156.
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Barber, M., & Pace, A. (2020). Exercise and Migraine Prevention: a Review of the Literature. Current pain and headache reports, 24(8), 39. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-020-00868-6
Lemmens, J., De Pauw, J., Van Soom, T., Michiels, S., Versijpt, J., van Breda, E., Castien, R., & De Hertogh, W. (2019). The effect of aerobic exercise on the number of migraine days, duration and pain intensity in migraine: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.
