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The Hidden Link Between Vestibular Health and Alzheimer’s Disease in Women

In this episode, May Bagnell, IHP and Dr. Michael Bagnell explore the surprising connection between the vestibular system in the inner ear and cognitive decline, particularly Alzheimer's disease in women. They discuss how the vestibular system influences memory, spatial navigation, and overall brain health, and why maintaining its function might be key to preventing dementia.

Main topics include:

• The heightened risk of Alzheimer's in women and the lesser-known role of the vestibular system
• How the inner ear communicates directly with the brain’s memory centers
• The vestibular system’s function as the brain’s GPS for spatial orientation and navigation
• Emerging technology for assessing and improving vestibular health
• The impact of aging on vestibular function and ways to strengthen it
• The connection between sleep, vestibular health, and cognitive performance
• Personal stories illustrating vestibular episodes and their effects on cognition and balance
• Practical steps for assessing and training vestibular function to support brain health

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Linking vestibular health to women’s risk of Alzheimer's
01:01 - Why women are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's and the vestibular system's role
02:26 - Understanding the vestibular system as the brain’s guidance system
03:01 - The connection between vestibular function, memory, and cognition
03:56 - Dementia types, prevalence in women, and early signs like balance issues
04:25 - The potential link between early vestibular decline and future cognitive issues
05:21 - Advances in technology for deep investigation into vestibular function
05:47 - The importance of strengthening the vestibular system and its impact on neuroprotection
06:46 - Preventive health strategies: biohacking and neurological optimization
07:16 - Real-world example of vestibular dysfunction linked to cognitive symptoms
07:47 - Personal story of a vestibular episode and its cognitive and physical aftermath
08:56 - Woman's perspective on the fear and acceptance of aging and cognitive risk
11:08 - Sleep’s role in brain health and its correlation with vestibular and cognitive functions
13:28 - How sleep disruptions can worsen vestibular problems and cognitive decline
15:26 - Vestibular testing in darkness and light and its implications for sleep quality
16:44 - The importance of symmetry in vestibular function for overall brain health
17:22 - Integrating sleep, diet, and vestibular training for optimal neuroprotection
20:30 - Personal experience with vertigo and its impact on cognition and stability
21:42 - Recognizing subtle vestibular issues as a factor in cognitive decline
22:15 - Taking proactive steps: brain health audits and vestibular training opportunities
23:09 - Closing thoughts: The brain’s adaptability and the power of training the vestibular system

Resources & Links:

• www.Bagnell Brain Center.com
• Aura Ring (Sleep tracker)

Connect with May & Dr. Michael Bagnell:

https://www.instagram.com/bagnell_brain_center/

https://www.tiktok.com/@bagnellbraincenter305

Take Action:
Schedule a brain health audit to assess your vestibular and cognitive function and start personalized training to support your brain health!

For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.

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