What Boosts Brain Energy?

Diet, Exercise and Ozempic

Author

Austin Perlmutter
August 02, 2024

Hello,

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Today’s topic: Brain Power!

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Brain metabolism is a fundamental aspect of overall brain health, playing a critical role in cognitive function, aging, and disease prevention. Unlike other organs, the brain requires a continuous and substantial supply of energy to function optimally. In fact, while it’s only about 2-3 lbs., the brain uses around 20-25% of the body’s energy. This energy typically comes from glucose (aka blood sugar), but under certain conditions, the brain can also utilize alternate fuel sources such as ketones and lactate. The interplay of these fuels is crucial for maintaining brain health, particularly in the context of aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. In this article, we explore how lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet, as well as emerging pharmacological interventions like GLP-1 related drugs (e.g., Ozempic), can influence brain metabolism.

Brain Metabolism, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Aging

Aging is associated with a decline in metabolic efficiency, and this is particularly evident in the brain. As we age, the brain’s ability to utilize glucose diminishes, leading to a state of energy deficit that can contribute to cognitive decline. This is one of the key factors underlying the development of Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment.

In Alzheimer’s disease, there is a significant reduction in glucose metabolism in the brain, a phenomenon known as “brain hypometabolism.” This is often detected years before clinical symptoms appear and is thought to contribute to the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles, the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s. Moreover, impaired glucose metabolism can exacerbate oxidative stress and inflammation, further accelerating neurodegeneration.

The Role of Exercise in Brain Metabolism

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to enhance brain metabolism and promote cognitive health. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, improving the delivery of oxygen and glucose to neurons. It also stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons and enhances synaptic plasticity, which is crucial for learning and memory.

Certain types of exercise, particularly aerobic exercise like running, swimming, and cycling, have been shown to be especially beneficial for brain metabolism. These activities increase the efficiency of mitochondrial function in neurons, enhancing the brain’s ability to produce and utilize energy. Resistance training, such as weightlifting, also contributes by improving insulin sensitivity, which can help maintain healthy glucose metabolism in the brain.

In one remarkable interventional study conducted in people who were overweight or obese, it was found that an 8-week intervention of aerobic exercise was sufficient to alter brain sensitivity to insulin. This powerful research suggests that exercise may directly act on brain metabolic state to improve our ability to use fuel.

Chronic inflammation is well-known to contribute to the most common disease states around today. But it’s also a central driver of risk for brain issues including mood and cognitive issues, low energy and trouble with memory and focus.

That’s why I was excited to join Dr. Jockers and other experts for the Conquering Chronic Inflammation Summit. If you click THIS LINK you can sign up to get free access to my interview and tons of other wonderful experts to learn how to decrease chronic inflammation and improve your health.

Join me LIVE in Florida From November 1-3!

I’m thrilled to announce that I’m part of an incredible lineup that comprises the first-ever Eudēmonia Summit in West Palm Beach, FL on Nov 1–3, 2024. Eudēmonia—named after the ancient Greek word for “well-being”—is poised to become the world’s largest wellness gathering. Alongside other experts, scientists, teachers, and creators, I’ll be exploring the latest in evidence-based research on cultivating your well-being. 

Get your badge to join me in November!

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 Till next time!

-Austin Perlmutter, MD 

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