Episode 150

Published April 21, 2026

In this insightful episode, Dr. Heather Sandison and Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton discuss the root causes of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's, how a naturopathic approach differs from conventional medicine, and practical strategies for brain health at any age.

This episode also highlights:

• The six drivers of cognitive decline
• The impact of hormones, especially the steep drop in estrogen at menopause
• How infections like Lyme disease, shingles, and COVID-19 can be linked to cognitive decline
• Tips for early intervention, including the importance of sleep hygiene along with diet, exercise, and stress management
• Using genetics to inform and optimize early intervention strategies

Key Moments

0:44 Episode Introduction

2:26 The Journey into Naturopathic Medicine and Cognitive Health

8:32 Understanding Cognitive Decline

11:38 The Role of Environment in Cognitive Health

14:59 The Brain Microbiome and Its Impact

19:20 Clinical Approaches to Cognitive Health

25:50 Become A DUTCH Provider

26:31 Patient Experience in Naturopathic Care

30:11 Future Directions in Neurocognitive Medicine

41:01 Exploring the Tools Used in Clinical Practice

44:07 Hormonal Influences on Cognitive Health

47:30 Dr. Sandison's Clinical Approach

52:34 The Importance of Sleep and Weight Management

About our speaker

Dr. Heather Sandison is the NYT bestselling author of Reversing Alzheimer’s The New Toolkit to Improve Cognition and Protect Brain Health. She is a renowned naturopathic doctor specializing in neurocognitive medicine and the founder of Solcere Health Clinic, a premier brain optimization clinic based in San Diego, and Marama, a residential program transforming memory care to memory recovery. Dr. Sandison is dedicated to supporting those suffering with dementia and is the primary author of peer-reviewed research published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. She is shattering common misconceptions about Alzheimer’s, teaching lifestyle change protocols that keep your brain sharp at any age.

Show Notes

Learn more about Dr. Sandison and follow her on Instagram @dr.heathersandison!

Read the ovarian aging study mentioned by Dr. Smeaton in this episode.

Become a DUTCH Provider today to see how the DUTCH Test can profoundly change the lives of your patients.

Disclaimer: Special offer of 50% OFF first five kits is invalid 60 days after new provider registration.