#475: 3 Simple Habits to Reverse Aging Eyes (Backed by Cutting-Edge Neuroscience) With Dr Bryce Appelbaum, OD, FOVDR
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Today, I’m joined by Dr. Bryce Applebaum, an innovative neuro-optometrist who’s on a mission to change everything we think we know about eyesight, vision, and brain health. Dr. Applebaum opens up about his own childhood struggles—how he went from feeling lost and insecure in the classroom to ultimately transforming a “disability” into a powerful advantage, simply by addressing the real cause behind his vision problems.
In this episode, we unpack the difference between eyesight and vision, explore why so many seemingly unrelated issues (from fatigue and poor focus to motion sickness, falls, and even emotional burnout) have untapped visual roots, and discuss the science of neuroplasticity—proof that you can rewire your visual system at any age. We also dig into the impact of screens on both kids and adults, uncover why the traditional eye exam misses so much, and talk through actionable, cutting-edge strategies to sharpen your brain, preserve your vision, and even avoid those dreaded reading glasses as you age.
Whether you have young kids, aging parents, or you’re simply tired of mental fatigue by midafternoon, this episode is filled with insights and concrete next steps to help you see—and show up—better in every sense of the word.
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What We Discuss:
Welcome & Episode Introduction ... 00:00:00
Vision issues in kids; hidden links to learning disorders ... 00:07:06
Screens and modern life disrupting vision ... 00:09:34
Visual system changes with aging and prevention ... 00:11:17
Why medicine ignores functional vision ... 00:16:11
Seeing clearly vs. seeing well; importance of spatial skills ... 00:17:27
The rise in myopia, digital risk factors, and missing outdoor time ... 00:23:21
Digital lifestyles and accelerated visual aging ... 00:27:05
Falls, spatial awareness, and visual training for longevity ... 00:29:26
Functional vision as early biomarker for cognitive decline ... 00:31:08
Why most eye care misses these issues; role of neuroplasticity ... 00:35:02
Common vision-related symptoms mislabeled as stress, aging, or ADHD ... 00:42:49
Vision screening for primary care and vision-first mindset ... 00:47:20
Neuroplasticity and vision improvement at any age ... 00:50:51
ADHD misdiagnosis and vision’s role ... 00:52:00
TBI, concussion, and vision as a core rehab target ... 00:59:45
Building an eye-focused longevity routine ... 01:09:58
Nutrition, red light, and emerging science for vision ... 01:14:08
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For Transparency:
Some episodes of the Longevity With Nathalie Niddam podcast are supported by partners whose products or services may be discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation or earn a minor commission if you purchase through affiliate links at no extra cost to you. All opinions shared are those of the host and guests, based on personal experience and research, and do not necessarily represent the views of any sponsor. Sponsorships do not imply medical endorsement or approval by any healthcare provider featured on this podcast.