Neurotoxins: The Invisible Pandemic with Brant Cortright, Ph.D.

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The brain is exquisitely sensitive and responsive to its inner and outer environment. New neural pathways and new brain cells are continuously forming, and, at the same time, the brain is constantly pruning unused connections. It’s extremely complex with its multiple feedback loops, redundant protective mechanisms, its vast number of interacting and mutually regulating neurotransmitters, hormones, and neuropeptides. Cortright says, “Taking care of our brains includes refraining from brain damaging foods, environmental toxins, emotionally destructive forces, as well as ignorant and inaccurate theories about brain health.” He reminds us that the brain is under sustained assault from many directions, so it’s no wonder there is an epidemic of cognitive decline in today’s world. It’s a toxic jungle regarding pollutants in the air, water, and foods we eat, as well as the negative media we take in. Here our guest touches on how to protect ourselves as we navigate the neuro-toxic forces that are currently pitched against everyone on the planet. The good news is the brain has a great capacity for healing and growth. This deep dialogue highlights how to protect and enhance your brain health. (hosted by Justine Willis Toms)

 Bio

 Brant Cortright, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist and Professor of Psychology at California Institute of Integral Studies. His consulting practice specializes in brain health and neuroscience-informed depth therapy.

 He’s the author of:

• Psychotherapy and Spirit: Theory and Practice in Transpersonal Psychotherapy (Suny Series, Philosophy of Psychology) (State University of New York Press 1997)
• Integral Psychology: Yoga, Growth, and Opening the Heart (Suny Series in Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology) (State University of New York Press 2007)
• The Neurogenesis Diet & Lifestyle: Upgrade Your Brain, Upgrade Your Life (Psyche Media 2015)
• Holistic Healing for Anxiety, Depression, & Cognitive Decline (Psyche Media 2020)

 To learn more about the work of Brant Cortright go to www.brantcortright.com.

 Topics explored in this dialogue include:

• Why mental disorders have skyrocketed in the last 50 years
• What is the damage glyphosates cause in the microbiome and how prevalent are they in our diet
• How effective are pharmaceuticals for anxiety, cognitive decline, or depression
• How some medications are helpful in the short term to relieve symptoms but cannot cure
• How the brain is constantly making new connections and forming new cells and cannot be compared to the static computer chip
• What is the benefit of increasing out neurogenic rate
• How stress and anxiety can actually shrink the brain
• How diet has a big place in brain health
• What are the four pillars of brain health: neurogenic, ketogenic, anti-inflammatory, and gut-friendly
• Why fatty acids like Omega-3 are important for our brains
• What are some ways to add anti-inflammatory foods and supplements to our diet
• How 80% of our neurotransmitters are produced by the microbiome of the gut
• How Alzheimer’s and dementia in aging are exacerbated
• How nutrition is not taught in medical school
• What is the benefit of meditation for a healthier brain
• How the brain needs optimal stimulation which means life-long learning is beneficial to the brain
• How the pandemic has added to widespread chronic loneliness
• What is weakened brain syndrome
• How does our spiritual practice effect our brains

 Host: Justine Willis Toms   Interview Date: 1/14/2021   Program Number: 3722

Music Playlist

From Album:  Bloom Road
Artist: Dan Kennedy

Opening Essay: Track 01 - Moonrise
Music Break 1: Track 02 - Prayer for Janet
Music Break 2: Track 05 - Beautiful Day (with You)
Music Break 3: Track 08 – Bloom Road