#595: Neuroplasticity and Reducing Risk of Cognitive Impairment – Dr. Majid Fotuhi

#595: Neuroplasticity and Reducing Risk of Cognitive Impairment – Dr. Majid Fotuhi

Author: Danny Lennon February 24, 2026 Duration: 38:21

Conversations about brain health have been dominated by a competing mix of fatalism and over-promising, with aging framed as inevitable decline and "brain optimisation" sold through weak evidence.

So how should we think about cognition across the lifespan?

In this episode, we explore the idea that neuroplasticity does not disappear in adulthood, but instead continues to respond, for better or worse, to repeated behaviours and exposures. Much of what is labelled age-related cognitive decline may in fact reflect an accumulation of modifiable risk factors.

We also dig into how to critically evaluate brain-health claims and how lifestyle pillars such as exercise, sleep, diet, stress reduction and cognitive training fit into a coherent framework.

The discussion extends to emerging multimodal intervention programs, their promising signals and their clear limitations, and to a broader, multifactorial view of Alzheimer's disease that moves beyond a narrow amyloid-centric model. Finally, we examine the role of genetics, including ApoE4, and why genetic risk does not equate to biological destiny, even later in life.

Dr. Majid Fotuhi is a neurologist and an adjunct professor at the Johns Hopkins Mind/Brain Institute. He earned his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed a Ph.D. in neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University. That was followed by internship and neurology residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Timestamps

  • [03:41] Understanding neuroplasticity
  • [05:22] Risk factors for cognitive decline
  • [07:07] Evidence-based interventions for brain health
  • [09:37] The five pillars of brain health
  • [10:42] Dr. Fotuhi's multimodal program
  • [19:09] Measuring cognitive function
  • [24:43] The role of amyloid and tau in Alzheimer's
  • [27:53] Genetics and lifestyle in brain health
  • [30:03] Debunking myths and overhyped claims
  • [36:08] Key ideas segment (premium subscribers only)

Related Resources


Sigma Nutrition Radio, hosted by nutrition scientist Danny Lennon, moves beyond the noise of diet trends and simplistic advice to explore the complex, fascinating world of human nutrition. This is a space for deep, evidence-based conversations that acknowledge the nuance and often contradictory nature of scientific research. Each episode delves into a specific topic within health, fitness, or dietetics, breaking down the underlying physiology, examining the latest studies, and discussing practical implications with expert guests. The goal isn't to hand out rigid meal plans but to cultivate the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the ever-changing landscape of nutritional science. You'll hear detailed analyses of how research is conducted, thoughtful debates on contentious issues, and explorations of how evidence translates-or doesn't-into real-world recommendations for different individuals. Tuning into this podcast means committing to a more sophisticated understanding of how food, movement, and metabolism interact, leaving you better equipped to make informed decisions about your own health and skepticism towards the next big headline. Danny’s approach is both rigorous and accessible, making even the most detailed biochemical pathways relevant to everyday life. It’s for anyone who has ever wondered about the real story behind a nutrition claim and values substance over soundbites.
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