#453 Dr Tommy Wood - How to Reduce the Risk of Cognitive Decline and Dementia

#453 Dr Tommy Wood - How to Reduce the Risk of Cognitive Decline and Dementia

Author: Andrew Coates March 19, 2026 Duration: 54:35

Dr Tommy Wood is a leading authority on neurodegenerative disease, cognitive health and decline, and related lifestyle interventions. Tommy has a medical degree from the University of Oxford, and a PhD in physiology and neuroscience.


I believe every guest and episode are excellent, but this episode and topic are off the charts for importance and valuable information. Everyone should care about their long term cognitive health and independence, and that of your loved ones.


Tommy shares his expertise about:


How we can decrease the long term risks of dementia


What’s within and what’s beyond your control


Why our idea of retirement may be a terrible idea


Is there a better way to retire


What is “headroom” and why does it matter for long term cognitive health


How important is physical activity for reducing risk of cognitive decline and does the type or intensity matter


Does bodyweight matter for long term neurodegenerative decline risk


What metabolic health factors and lifestyle diseases contribute to dementia risk


Is there a sweet spot for overall energy consumption and cognitive health


What role can nutrition play in cognitive health


Are video games beneficial in cognitive decline prevention


How dancing may be potent for prevention


And a ton more


IG: @drtommywood


CHAPTERS


01:15 Video Games And Brain Health

04:15 Cognitive Headroom Explained

07:57 Gaming Context Matters

09:59 Cognitive Reserve And Education

12:24 Learning Beyond School

15:19 Three S Brain Model

20:17 Uncontrollable Risk Factors

22:54 Genetics And APOE4

27:08 Family History And Lifestyle

28:23 Exercise Type And Intensity

29:03 Movement Minimums

29:46 Walking Grows Hippocampus

30:41 HIIT And Lactate

32:37 Lifting For White Matter

33:40 Dancing And Open Skills

36:18 Falls Illness And Decline

39:43 Retirement Brain Risk

45:04 Weight And Metabolic Health

46:35 GLP1s And Dementia

49:22 Key Brain Nutrients

52:17 Wrap Up And Book Plug


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Andrew Coates hosts Lift Free And Diet Hard, a conversation grounded in the belief that strength and wellness are built on more than just routines. This podcast moves beyond quick fixes to examine the principles and personal stories that shape a sustainable, intentional life. You’ll hear from a variety of inspiring guests who share not only their expertise but also the real-world challenges and triumphs they’ve faced. The discussions naturally weave together the science of fitness with the practicalities of daily choices, offering a nuanced look at what it means to truly care for your physical and mental health. Each episode is designed to provide actionable insights you can use to navigate your own path, fostering resilience and confidence whether you're in the gym or the kitchen. By focusing on informed decision-making over dogma, the Lift Free And Diet Hard podcast becomes a resource for anyone looking to cut through the noise of wellness culture. Andrew facilitates these explorations with a focus on empowerment, ensuring every conversation adds a layer of understanding to the complex journey of building a strong, healthy life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Lift Free And Diet Hard with Andrew Coates
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