May 29, 2025 · 16 min
TN
Health & Fitness
The Neuro Experience
Louisa Nicola
The Neuro Experience. Conversations with the greatest minds in Brain Science.
- 433 episodes
- Updated Thursday
Episodes433
- TNMay 20, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
Can Resistance Training Help Women Build Muscle & Prevent Alzheimer’s?
I'm excited to share my conversation with Stuart Phillips, where we dive deep into muscle building science - a topic that generates endless debate on social media. As someone who struggles with gaining muscle despite consistent training, I was shocked when Dr. Christopher Gardner told me muscle growth is "10% nutrition and 90% exercise." This contradicted everything I thought I knew, so I had to bring in Stu - widely considered the foremost expert on muscle development - to separate fact from...
- TNMay 13, 2025 · 24 min
6 Proven Strategies to Prevent Alzheimer’s | A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s | Part 3
Why are women twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease—especially during and after menopause? The answer goes far beyond age, and what I reveal in this episode might change how you think about your brain forever. In Part 3 of A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease, I uncover the hidden hormonal and genetic factors that put women at greater risk—and the steps you must take before symptoms ever begin. I’ll walk you through the six most powerful prevention strategies, the critical tests ...
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Apr 30, 2025 · 1 hr 3 minDr. Christopher Gardner: What’s the Real Protein Requirement for Muscle Growth—Plant vs Animal?
In this conversation with Dr. Christopher Gardner, we challenge what might be one of nutrition science's most pervasive myths—that we need massive amounts of protein to build muscle and maintain health. You might recognize Dr. Gardner from the popular Netflix docuseries featuring his groundbreaking identical twin study, where he explored how different diets affect our bodies. We talk about the evidence behind protein requirements, diet quality versus macronutrient ratios, and a framework for sustainable eating that prioritizes both nutrition and taste. We also discuss his DIETFIT study and SWAP-MEAT trial, which challenge conventional wisdom about weight loss diets and plant-based alternatives. The most fascinating insight for me was learning that muscle growth depends approximately 90% on workout stimulus and less than 10% on protein intake, completely contradicting the protein-obsessed fitness culture we're immersed in. Dr. Gardner's research shows the average American already consumes 1.2g/kg of protein daily without trying (well above the RDA), while the original nitrogen balance studies found something entirely different. We also get into the controversy surrounding the Netflix twin study that garnered significant attention—and criticism. Dr. Gardner reveals the behind-the-scenes reality of what actually happened with the muscle mass measurements that appeared in the documentary versus his published research, and why the allegations of data manipulation couldn't be further from the truth. If you're interested in evidence-based nutrition that cuts through industry hype, this conversation provides scientific clarity and actionable strategies that might change how you think about protein and diet quality. Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations that challenge conventional thinking about brain health and performance. I'm committed to bringing you insights that transform how we approach health based on science, not marketing. About Dr. Christopher Gardner Dr. Christopher Gardner is a nutrition scientist and professor at Stanford University who has conducted over 25 human studies on diet and health. His research includes the DIETFIT study, SWAP-MEAT trial, and an identical twin study featured in a Netflix docuseries. He serves on the Culinary Institute of America's scientific advisory board and is currently researching plant-based diets with firefighters. Follow him on Instagram @cgardnerphd or learn more at nutrition.stanford.edu. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Protein Myths & Leucine Threshold 02:58 Daily Protein RDA for Muscle Growth & Maintenance 06:17 Nitrogen Balance & Protein Recommendations 11:42 Nutrition vs. Exercise for Muscle-Building 16:37 Women’s Fitness: Calories & Resistance Training 20:14 DIETFITS Study: Diet Quality vs. Macronutrient Composition 39:17 SWAP-MEAT Trial: Plant-Based vs. Red Meat 50:04 Impact of Nutrition Education on Health 53:18 The Protein Flip & Plant-Based Menus 59:14 Netflix Twin Study: Addressing Misconceptions & Criticisms *** A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: Hone Health – Take control of your hormones with at-home testing designed specifically for men. Get personalized insights and expert guidance to optimize your health and performance. Learn more at: https://honehealth.com/ Momentous – Science-backed supplements trusted by elite athletes and experts. Whether you’re looking to improve recovery, performance, or overall wellness, Momentous has you covered. Use code NEURO for 20% off your order: https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro Troscriptions – Unlock your cognitive potential with precision-dosed nootropics developed by medical experts. Whether you need more focus, clarity, or energy, Troscriptions offers innovative solutions. - Get 10% off: https://troscriptions.com/NEURO -... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- TNApr 30, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
What’s the Real Protein Requirement? How Plant-Based vs Animal Protein Impact Muscle Growth
In this conversation with Dr. Christopher Gardner, we debunk a common nutrition myth—that we need massive protein to build muscle. You might know Dr. Gardner from his twin study featured on Netflix, which explores how diets affect our bodies. We discuss protein requirements, diet quality, and sustainable eating. Plus, Dr. Gardner reveals insights from his DIETFITS Study and SWAP-MEAT trial, challenging conventional views on weight loss and plant-based diets. For science-backed nutrition ins...
- TNApr 23, 2025 · 56 min
Can Alzheimer’s Be Prevented? The Role of Genetics, Hormones & Lifestyle Choices in Cognitive Health
In this conversation with Dr. Heather Sandison, we explore what I consider to be one of medicine's most significant misunderstandings—that Alzheimer's disease, particularly in women, is an unstoppable fate. We examine the evidence behind cognitive decline, hormones, lifestyle interventions, and a framework for preventing and even reversing what was once considered irreversible. If you're interested in making evidence-based decisions about your brain health, understanding why traditional appro...
- TNApr 2, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Methylene Blue & Mitochondria: How This Compound Fights Alzheimer's and Brain Aging
I'm excited to share my conversation with Dr. Scott Sherr, where we dive deep into methylene blue - a compound you've probably seen all over social media lately (those blue tongues!). As someone whose primary research focuses on Alzheimer's disease, I was fascinated to explore the science behind this molecule that dates back to the 1870s and was actually the first drug registered with the FDA in 1897. The most fascinating insight for me was learning how methylene blue can serve as an ...
- TNMar 26, 2025 · 17 min
What Are the 3 Key Blood Tests for Alzheimer's Detection? | A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease | Part 2
Alzheimer’s doesn’t just “happen” later in life—it’s a slow, silent process that can begin decades before symptoms appear. In this solo episode, we challenge the myth that Alzheimer’s is purely genetic, and break down what the science really says about your risk. I explore the role of the APOE4 gene, how it interacts with lifestyle and metabolic health, and why women—especially during and after menopause—may face a unique vulnerability. Most importantly, I introduce three cutting-edge blood...
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Mar 19, 2025 · 11 min95% of Alzheimer’s Cases Are Preventable | A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease | Part 1
Alzheimer’s doesn’t just “show up” one day - it starts decades earlier. The good news? Your brain health is in your hands. This is Part 1 of a 10-part series where I’ll be breaking down everything you need to know about brain health, cognitive function, and Alzheimer’s prevention. In this episode, I’m explaining how your brain actually works, what affects memory and cognition, and the biggest factors that influence Alzheimer’s risk. I’ll break down the science of neurons, blood flow, and mitochondria—so you can take action now to keep your brain sharp for life. *** A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: ZocDoc – Finding a great doctor has never been easier. With ZocDoc, you can browse top-rated physicians, read real patient reviews, and book appointments online - all in one place. Get started here: https://www.zocdoc.com/neuro Hone Health – Take control of your hormones with at-home testing designed specifically for men. Get personalized insights and expert guidance to optimize your health and performance. Learn more at: https://honehealth.com/ Momentous – Science-backed supplements trusted by elite athletes and experts. Whether you’re looking to improve recovery, performance, or overall wellness, Momentous has you covered. Use code NEURO for 20% off your order: https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro Troscriptions – Unlock your cognitive potential with precision-dosed nootropics developed by medical experts. Whether you need more focus, clarity, or energy, Troscriptions offers innovative solutions. - Get 10% off: https://troscriptions.com/NEURO - https://troscriptions.com/discount/NEUROMAIL?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=NeuroMail *** I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — Alzheimer’s prevention specialist — founder of Neuro Athletics. My mission is to translate cutting-edge neuroscience into actionable strategies for cognitive longevity, peak performance, and brain disease prevention. If you're committed to optimizing your brain — reducing Alzheimer’s risk — and staying mentally sharp for life, you’re in the right place. Stay sharp. Stay informed. Join thousands who subscribe to the Neuro Athletics Newsletter → https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- TNMar 12, 2025 · 49 min
Dr. Rena Malik: The Science of Testosterone & Its Impact on Mood, Cognition & Longevity in Women
Testosterone is often misunderstood as a male-exclusive hormone, but did you know that women have four times more testosterone than estrogen? In this episode, I sit down with leading urologist and sexual health expert Dr Rena Malik to uncover the critical role testosterone plays in cognitive function, energy levels, muscle strength, and overall well-being in women. We explore: • The misunderstood role of testosterone in female physiology • Why testosterone deficiency is more common than you ...
- TNMar 4, 2025 · 11 min
A Woman's Guide to Alzheimer's Disease: Part 1 with Louisa Nicola
In today's episode I am kicking off a 10-part series, "Women's Guide to Alzheimer's Disease," focusing on understanding the complexities of the brain. Delve into the basics of neurons, synaptic connections, and the essential role of vascular health in cognitive function. Discover how lifestyle factors contribute to Alzheimer's and the critical window for intervention. Explore key elements like mitochondrial function and the APOE4 gene's impact. With insights into brain health and ...
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Feb 11, 2025 · 59 minHow 30 Minutes of Exercise Fights 13 Types of Cancer!
Is exercise the key to cancer prevention? In this episode of The Neuro Experience Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Inigo San Millan, a world-renowned expert in metabolism, mitochondrial function, and cancer research. We break down the science behind Zone 2 training, how elite athletes unlock metabolic advantages, and why skeletal muscle may be the ultimate defense against disease. 🔥 Key Topics: ✅ How Zone 2 exercise transforms mitochondrial health ✅ The link between skeletal muscle & cancer prevention ✅ Why metabolic health is the future of longevity Timestamp 0:00 Exercise and Skeletal Muscle's Role in Cancer Prevention 9:18 Lactate, Cancer, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Metabolic Disorders 14:57 Nanoparticles in Cancer Treatment and Funding Challenges 19:19 Understanding Zone 2 Training and Its Potential Health Benefits 23:24 Understanding Exercise Intensity Zones and Their Metabolic Impacts 29:16 The Benefits of Zone Two Training for Longevity and Performance 39:27 Reevaluating Exercise Guidelines for Optimal Health 42:25 Exploring Exercise Oncology and Its Impact on Cancer Prevention 52:54 Optimizing Exercise for Healthspan and Longevity Sponsors: ZocDoc: https://www.zocdoc.com/neuro Hone Health Hormone Testing: https://honehealth.com/ Momentous - Use code NEURO to get 20% off your order - https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro *** The Neuro Athletics Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- TNFeb 11, 2025 · 59 min
Zone 2 Training and Cancer Metabolism: The Science Behind Peak Metabolic Health | Dr Inigo San Millan
Dr. Inigo San Milan: Leading Expert in Metabolism, Exercise Physiology, and Cancer Research Dr. Inigo San Milan is a globally recognized expert in metabolic health, exercise science, Zone 2 training, mitochondrial function, and cancer metabolism. His groundbreaking research has transformed the understanding of lactate, highlighting its role not just in athletic performance but also in metabolic diseases, cancer progression, and longevity. As a strong advocate of Zone 2 training, Dr. San Milan...
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Jan 21, 2025 · 58 min#1 Cancer Expert: These Foods Cause Cancer (Prof Thomas Seyfried)
Professor Thomas Seyfried challenges the conventional understanding of cancer in this insightful discussion. With over 30 years of experience, Seyfried emphasizes cancer as a metabolic disorder, not a genetic disease, and explores the role of diet, lifestyle, and mitochondrial dysfunction in cancer's prevalence. Delving into topics like the ketogenic diet, glucose fermentation, and the impact of stress and environment, Seyfried offers a fresh perspective on cancer prevention and management. This episode is a deep dive into rethinking cancer's causes and solutions with potentially life-changing implications. 👉Book a 1-1 Enrolment Call to See If We Can Help You Scale Today: https://www.neuroathletics.com.au/ftw Timestamps 0:00 Cancer as a Metabolic Disorder, Not a Genetic Disease 9:54 Challenging the Genetic Theory of Cancer Amidst Dogma 11:46 Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Cancer Cell Proliferation 16:41 Rethinking Cancer: Mitochondria, Metabolism, and Misguided Dogma 26:09 Cancer Cells Rely on Fermentation Due to Mitochondrial Defects 30:52 Glutamine's Crucial Role in Cancer and Immune Function 32:40 Metabolic Therapy as a Promising Approach to Cancer Treatment 41:59 Ketogenic Diet and Exercise in Cancer and Health Management 50:19 Modern Lifestyle Stress and Its Impact on Health 53:16 Metabolic Therapy as a Disruptive Approach to Cancer Prevention Sponsors: ZocDoc: https://www.zocdoc.com/neuro Hone Health Hormone Testing: https://honehealth.com/ Momentous - Use code NEURO to get 20% off your order - https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro *** The Neuro Athletics Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- TNJan 21, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Leading Cancer Expert: "This Everyday Food Could Be Making Cancer Worse" A Global Rise in Cancer That May Not Be Genetic | Dr Thomas Seyfried
Professor Thomas Seyfried joins the conversation to challenge the conventional view of cancer as a genetic disease, presenting it instead as a metabolic disorder influenced by lifestyle factors. With over 30 years of research, Seyfried argues that current cancer treatments may exacerbate the disease. He discusses the role of glucose and glutamine in cancer metabolism and emphasizes the potential of metabolic therapy, including ketogenic diets, for prevention and management. Explore the comp...
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Jan 6, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min#1 Harvard Doctor: "Eat This Before It's Too Late" | Dr Georgia Ede
Dr. Georgia Ede is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist, accomplished author, and leading specialist on the impacts of nutrition on mental health. As the author of the bestselling book, "Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind," she champions the ketogenic diet as a cornerstone intervention in managing and improving mental health outcomes. With a professional focus on psychiatric nutrition, Dr. Ede is also known for her educational efforts, including her CME-accredited course on ketogenic diets for mental health. She has dedicated over 15 years to practice, research, and teaching on the interplay between diet and brain function Find Georgia here: https://www.diagnosisdiet.com/ Sponsors: Hone Health Hormone Testing: https://honehealth.com/ Momentous - Use code NEURO to get 20% off your order - https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro Timestamps 0:00 Transforming Mental Health Through Diet and Nutrition 11:50 The Power of Nutrition in Mental Health and Brain Function 19:44 Balancing Nature and Nurture in Brain Health 21:35 Exploring ADHD and the Impact of Ketogenic Diets 29:55 The Benefits and Limitations of Ketogenic Diets and Exogenous Ketones 37:29 The Role of GLP1s and Ketogenic Diets in Metabolic Health 44:56 Balancing Diets for Optimal Brain Health 50:59 Personalizing Diets for Optimal Health and Insulin Management 56:02 Understanding Cholesterol, LDL, and HDL in Ketogenic Diets 1:08:15 Achieving Fat Adaptation and Protein Balance for Weight Loss 1:14:21 Empowering Global Mental Health Through Diet and Metabolic Health *** The Neuro Athletics Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- TNJan 6, 2025 · 1 hr 19 min
Keto Diet Expert: ADHD and Depression Cured? The Shocking Truth About the Ketogenic Diet! | Dr. Georgia Ede, MD
Dr. Georgia Ede is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist, accomplished author, and leading specialist on the impacts of nutrition on mental health. As the author of the bestselling book, "Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind," she champions the ketogenic diet as a cornerstone intervention in managing and improving mental health outcomes. With a professional focus on psychiatric nutrition, Dr. Ede is also known for her educational efforts, including her CME-accredited course on ketogenic diets ...
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Dec 10, 2024 · 1 hr 5 minDr Ben Bikman: How Insulin Resistance DESTROYS Your Brain
Dr. Ben Bikman joins for an insightful discussion on insulin resistance, metabolic health, and chronic diseases like Alzheimer's. Exploring insulin's role in fat metabolism, muscle function, and glucose regulation, Dr. Bikman challenges conventional views on obesity and chronic disease prevention, emphasizing lifestyle changes over medication. He delves into the effects of GLP1 drugs and the significant impact of insulin resistance on cardiovascular health. With expert analysis, Dr. Bikman underscores how understanding insulin can revolutionize preventative health measures and improve metabolic function. Timestamp Summary 0:00 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Its Impact on Health 6:36 Understanding Insulin's Role in Health and Disease 10:20 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Glucose Management 20:30 Exploring Natural Supplements for Managing Glucose Levels 23:00 Challenging the Plaque Theory in Alzheimer's Disease 27:27 Ketones as a Vital Energy Source for the Brain 32:04 Exploring Ketone Types and Tastes 33:33 Insulin Resistance and Ethnic Differences in Fat Cell Growth 38:04 Insulin's Role in Fat Cell Growth and Metabolism 45:10 GLP1 Drugs and Dietary Changes for Insulin Sensitivity 55:52 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Its Impact on Health Sponsors: Hone Health Hormone Testing: https://honehealth.com/ Momentous - Use code NEURO to get 20% off your order - https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro Book a 1-1 Call with a Neuro Athletics advisor to See If We Can Help You coaching practise: https://calendly.com/louisa-nicola/intro-call-with-na-sales-team *** The Neuro Athletics Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Join me for an enlightening discussion about metabolic health and its crucial role in our overall wellbeing. We explore how blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity work together to prevent type 2 diabetes, while diving deep into the science of metabolism and its impact on our daily lives. This episode provides a comprehensive understanding of how our bodies process energy, making complex concepts accessible for everyone interested in holistic health. 🧠💪 Drop a comment below with your biggest takeaway from this episode! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss content like this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- TNDec 10, 2024 · 1 hr 5 min
How Insulin Resistance DESTROYS Your Brain and Performance
Dr. Ben Bikman joins for an insightful discussion on insulin resistance, metabolic health, and chronic diseases like Alzheimer's. Exploring insulin's role in fat metabolism, muscle function, and glucose regulation, Dr. Bikman challenges conventional views on obesity and chronic disease prevention, emphasizing lifestyle changes over medication. He delves into the effects of GLP1 drugs and the significant impact of insulin resistance on cardiovascular health. With expert analysis, Dr. Bikma...
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Nov 26, 2024 · 1 hr 15 minIs Personalized Medicine REALLY the Future of Metabolic Health?
Join me as I sit down with Nick Norwitz, PhD, a brilliant Harvard medical student and rising star in metabolic health, for a deep dive into the fascinating world of metabolism, chronic disease, and how we can take control of our health. In this episode, we tackle big topics like: - The misunderstood roles of lipids and cholesterol in heart disease and Alzheimer’s - The hidden dangers of hyperinsulinemia (and what you can do about it) - Why ketogenic diets are making waves in the world of metabolic therapy - The power of personalized health experiments to optimize your well-being If you're curious about the future of nutrition, longevity, and how to fine-tune your body for peak health, this conversation is a must-watch. Nick shares groundbreaking insights and actionable tips that could change how you think about your health forever. Drop a comment below with your biggest takeaway from this episode! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss content like this. *** The Neuro Athletics Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices