The Better Brain Solution by Dr. Steven Masley is a guide on how to protect our brains against memory loss and dementia. I like that in his medical practice and in his book Dr. Masley takes a holistic and proactive approach on health management. He shows us how to prevent memory loss before it starts or becomes debilitating, as opposed to only managing disease. According to Dr. Masley, people who have followed his advice have shown a 25 % improvement in executive brain function, as well as better heart health, better blood sugar control, and an overall boost in energy.
In part I of the book, Dr. Masley points out the strong connection between blood sugar levels, heart health and brain health. He gives examples of how memory loss progresses over time into full blown dementia and shows how mental sharpness or different grades of dementia can be assessed.
In Part II of the book Dr. Masley gives a detailed introduction of the four pillars of the Better Brain Solution: diet, nutrients, physical activity, and stress management. He emphasizes that we can only be successful if we address all four pillars simultaneously. Then, he lists environmental toxins that are detrimental to brain health and should be avoided. The book ends with a lot of yummy recipes to remind us that living healthy does not mean we have to give up enjoying good food.
Personally I found a lot of information in this book that I have not known before, from the connection between blood sugar and brain health, choosing the right cooking oil or cocoa powder, to getting a good night's sleep. Dr. Masley has reminded me that a better diet is only one piece in the puzzle of better brain health and overall health. I know I also have to address my physical fitness and my stress management in order to stay mentally fit and I will try to embrace Dr. Masley's suggestions.
Overall, I can only recommend buying The Better Brain Solution because it is so comprehensive. The only thing I disagree about is that Dr. Masley suggests unfermented soy products like Edamame as part of a healthy diet, as the majority has been genetically modified and unfermented soy products might elevate the risk for breast cancer. But soy products aside, I would wholeheartedly put my trust into Dr. Masley and get a personal health evaluation in his medical office if I had the financial means to do so.