#88: Are Microplastics Causing Dementia?

#88: Are Microplastics Causing Dementia?

Author: Josh Turknett, MD November 4, 2025 Duration: 38:08

You may have heard the alarming headline about a recent study that showed the typical brain had about a teaspoon of microplastics inside of it. And that amount appears to be increasing each year.

In equally alarming fashion, that same study also revealed that those with dementia had over 5 times the amount of plastic in their brains as those without.

Needless to say, it's an issue worth paying attention to. So, in this episode, we break down what is known about microplastics and their impact on brain health, and we discuss the specific measures we're both taking to reduce our own exposure to microplastics and enhance their clearance.

Because brain plasticity is a great thing, but a plastic brain is not!

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To submit a question for us to answer on the podcast, go to brainjo.academy/question.

To subscribe to the free Better Brain Fitness newsletter, join us when we record live, and get our Guide and Checklist to essential blood tests and nutrients, go to: betterbrain.fitness.

Click here to pre-order Dr. Wood's book, "The Stimulated Mind."

Click here to grab Dr. Turknett's bestselling book, "Anyone Can Play Music"

Intro and Outro music composed and produced by Julienne Ellen

 


What does it really mean to have a fit brain, and how do we actually achieve it? That’s the central question explored in Better Brain Fitness (a Brainjo Production), a conversation guided by neurologist Dr. Josh Turknett and neuroscientist Dr. Tommy Wood. Moving beyond generic advice, each episode digs into the practical, often surprising science of cognitive longevity. You’ll hear discussions that translate complex research into actionable strategies, covering everything from nutrition and sleep to movement and mental challenge. The aim isn’t just about preventing decline, but actively building a resilient, high-performing mind that supports your passions and daily life. This podcast operates on the principle that our brain’s health is malleable at any age, and that understanding the underlying mechanisms empowers us to make better choices. Tune in for a nuanced look at how lifestyle intersects with neurology, stripping away the hype to focus on what evidence suggests truly works. It’s a resource for anyone curious about taking a proactive, informed role in their own cognitive well-being, ensuring the brain remains a robust partner for all the years ahead.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Better Brain Fitness (a Brainjo Production)
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