Episode #337. An estimated 45% of dementia cases are preventable – find out how you can reduce your risk by targeting these 14 modifiable factors. Today I’m joined by Dr Kellyann Niotis, the first fellowship-trained preventive neurologist, to explore the latest research on dementia prevention and how simple lifestyle changes can dramatically reduce your risk. In this episode, we break down The Lancet’s 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia, from managing LDL cholesterol and staying physically active to addressing hearing loss and improving your mental health. You’ll also learn about the links between nutrition, sleep, and brain health, and why it’s never too early – or too late – to start taking care of your brain. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Pioneering Preventive Neurology (00:07) Decoding Neurodegenerative Diseases (00:56) Understanding the Phases of Neurodegeneration (02:09) Early Indicators: Preclinical Signs and Cognitive Impairment (07:12) Uncovering Dementia’s Risk Factors and Preventive Steps (11:33) How Education Builds Cognitive Reserve Against Dementia (22:37) Why Vision and Hearing Loss Could Raise Dementia Risk (27:45) The Link Between Oral Health and Cognitive Decline (40:45) How Depression Influences Dementia Risk (52:33) Head Trauma’s Impact on Cognitive Health (59:21) How Head Injuries May Contribute to Dementia (01:01:35) How Exercise Benefits Brain Health and Longevity (01:11:43) Social Connections: A Key to Cognitive Health (01:23:56) How Diabetes Increases Dementia Risk (01:30:03) Hypertension’s Role in Cognitive Decline (01:48:00) Optimal Blood Pressure Goals for Brain Health (01:59:08) Alcohol’s Effects on Brain Function (02:01:12) Recreational Drugs and Brain Degeneration (02:09:38) Smoking’s Effect on Dementia Risk (02:12:00) The Link Between Air Pollution and Cognitive Health (02:17:49) Environmental Toxins and Dementia Risk (02:22:35) Diet Choices That May Help Prevent Dementia (02:29:30) Why Quality Sleep is Essential for Brain Health (02:35:44) Menopause’s Influence on Dementia Risk (02:46:26) Closing Thoughts and Contact Information (02:52:28) Connect with Dr Kellyann Niotis on Instagram, LinkedIn, and via her website, https://drkellyannniotis.com/. Listen to her appearance in Episode #333 here. Head to the full show notes for additional insights and supporting studies. This episode is brought to you by: 38TERA Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout. Momentous My go-to supplement brand for protein and creatine is Momentous. Get 20% off your first purchase by using the code LIVINGPROOF at checkout at livemomentous.com Shopify Shopify, the world's leading e-commerce platform, helps you turn browsers into buyers with the internet’s best-converting check out–up to 36% better compared to other leading e-commerce platforms. To boost your conversion rate, and grow your business, sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/proof. Pique Tea Stay energised without the coffee crash with Pique’s Sun Goddess Matcha. Organic, ceremonial-grade, and uniquely loaded with l-theanine to keep you calm and focused. Get up to 15% off plus a free beaker and frother at piquelife.com/simon. Eight Sleep Upgrade your sleep with the Pod 4 Ultra by Eight Sleep. Clinically validated to deliver up to 1 extra hour of quality sleep per night through temperature control and biometric tracking. Use code THEPROOF for $350 off at eightsleep.com/theproof. Try it risk-free for 30 days, with worldwide shipping.