#459: Why 1 in 5 Women Face Alzheimer's: The BRAIN Health Conversation We've Been Avoiding | Emma Heming Willis & Dr. Nicole Beurkens
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For years, we've been told to prioritize our muscles, our hormones, and our heart health—but what about our brains? Today's conversation explores why women are at a greater risk for Dementia and Alzheimer's, why brain changes begin decades before symptoms appear, and why so many warning signs are dismissed as "just stress" or "just menopause."
I'm joined by Emma Heming Willis, co-founder of Make Time Wellness and Dr. Nicole Beurkens, Make Time Wellness Scientific Advisor, for an incredibly honest discussion that blends cutting-edge neuroscience with deeply personal experience. We discuss cognitive resilience, how to care for your brain NOW, hormone health, and the simple habits that can help protect your brain for years to come. We also talk about Emma’s experience care-giving for her husband Bruce Willis who was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Being a caretaker is a tough job and there are serious challenges that come with it. Emma is speaking out about the toll it takes and how important it is for your health to make time for yourself.
If you've ever experienced brain fog, become a caretaker for someone you love, or wondered what you can actually do to protect your cognitive health, this episode is one you won't want to miss. Visit https://maketimewellness.com/NAT and use code NAT for 20% off products.
Emma Heming Willis is the author of The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path.
Learn more from Emma Heming Willis & Dr. Nicole Beurkens below:
Website: https://maketimewellness.com/NAT
Dr. Nicole Beurkens Website: https://www.drbeurkens.com/
Book: The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maketimewellness/?hl=en
What We Discuss:
Women's Brain Health Is Being Overlooked ... 00:00:00
Why Women's Brain Health Has Been Ignored ... 00:09:13
Why Alzheimer's Begins Decades Before Diagnosis ... 00:16:26
Brain Fog vs. Dementia: Knowing The Difference ... 00:17:31
Hormones, Menopause & The Brain ... 00:22:08
Becoming A Caregiver Overnight ... 00:25:41
The Hidden Health Risks Of Caregiving ... 00:26:19
How To Tell Normal Brain Changes From Dementia ... 00:30:00
Why Women Need More Self-Compassion During Menopause ... 00:34:00
The Power Of Community & Social Connection ... 00:36:07
What Every Woman Should Know About Brain Health Earlier In Life ... 00:39:33
Grief, Anger & Caregiver Guilt ... 00:44:22
How Dementia Changes An Entire Family ... 00:47:25
Why Women Face A Higher Alzheimer's Risk ... 00:50:26
The Caregiver Wake-Up Call ... 00:49:00
Genetics vs. Lifestyle: Can You Lower Your Risk? ... 00:59:50
The Biggest Modifiable Dementia Risk Factors ... 00:56:16
Sleep, Blood Sugar & Brain Health ... 01:08:00
Supplements That Support Cognitive Health ... 01:10:00
Where To Learn More ... 01:24:32
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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.