Optimizing Brain Health & Recovery with Kristen Willeumier, PhD and Alice Nguyen, NMD

How do concussions, repetitive head trauma, and strokes impact long-term brain health? Neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Willeumier and naturopathic physician Dr. Alice Nguyen join Todd Vande Hei for an eye-opening discussion on brain resilience, recovery, and performance. Dr. Willeumier explains the dangers of subconcussive impacts—those repeated hits that don’t cause immediate symptoms but lead to long-term neurological damage. She breaks down the science of neuroplasticity, the role of tau protein in CTE, and how modern therapies like hyperbaric oxygen can support brain repair. Dr. Nguyen provides a functional medicine perspective, detailing the key supplements, lab tests, and lifestyle changes that optimize cognitive function. She shares the exact protocol Todd followed before and after his stroke, offering valuable insights into the power of omega-3s, glutathione, and mitochondrial support. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to protect your brain, enhance mental clarity, and age with cognitive resilience. Whether you’re an athlete, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to perform at your best, these insights are essential. Get access to Todd’s free health resource: https://podtodd.com Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health CHAPTERS:<br>00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kristen Willeumier & Dr. Alice Nguyen<br>03:10 The Hidden Dangers of Repetitive Head Trauma<br>07:35 How Subconcussive Impacts Lead to Long-Term Brain Damage<br>12:15 The Science of CTE & Tau Protein Accumulation<br>18:00 Stroke vs. Concussions: Key Differences in Recovery<br>22:45 Strategies for Neuroplasticity & Brain Repair<br>28:30 The Role of Supplements in Cognitive Function<br>34:20 How TRT Influences Brain Performance<br>40:50 The Importance of Diet in Neurological Health<br>46:15 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Brain Recovery<br>51:40 Practical Steps to Maintain Cognitive Longevity<br>58:10 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Dr. Willeumier & Dr. Nguyen Connect with Stark<br>Personalized inside‑out health programs at stark.health Enjoying the show? Follow, rate, and review to help more listeners master the skill of health. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔 Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential. Whether you're struggling with chronic pain, seeking sustainable weight loss, or simply striving to live your best life, Todd's journey and expertise will inspire and empower you to take control of your health and well-being. Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together! DISCLOSURE We focus on optimizing every aspect of your well-being. At Stark, our team of expert trainers, doctors, nutritionists and a complete medical support team, led by CEO Todd Vande Hei, is dedicated to helping you become the BEST version of yourself. We specialize in coaching executives, athletes, pop stars, astronauts and other noteworthy individuals in all forms of exercise, diet, lifestyle, stress management and personalized supplement protocols. Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal h... Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health