The Better Brain Book: The Best Tool for Improving Memory and Sharpness and Preventing Aging of the Brain

Even though this book was written 8 years ago, the information in it still holds true. Much of the research done on dementia, Alzheimer's disease, etc. had been done as early as the 90's, but it was never released to the public. In addition, information on the internet was not as readily available at that time. In September of 2012, I removed my 93 year old mother from a nursing home where she had been deteriorating until I could get legal guardianship for her. During a period of 8 years that she lived with my aunt and then another 9 months in the nursing home, she had lost her ability to speak, could no longer walk with assistance, and her brain function had been greatly reduced. When she came to live with us, she was completely incontinent (couldn't control bodily functions) and was on 10 medications that included 3 for high blood pressure, 1 for high cholesterol, 1 for low thyroid, 1 for water retention, in addition to a few others. When she came here, I immediately started research on her medications and why they were needed, and also the causes of dementia and what may halt or improve the condition. Through diet and supplements, we gradually eliminated the need for medications, and also started a regiment of supplements to improve brain function. At this point in time, 10 months later, she is not taking any medications at all, and is completely continent. I do caution anyone that might try this, that you need work closely with a physician that does periodic complete blood tests and physicals to monitor results. With supplements I found in my research, we have also increased her ability to speak, but it is not yet 100%. My theory is that once the brain is given what it needs to start reproducing cells, the cells that have been destroyed, and hence the memories and cognitive abilities, must be rebuilt. If given the necessary tools, the brain never stops growing. So destroyed synaptic connections must be rebuilt. In addition to diet and supplements, I have been using iPad applications for speech and memory therapy to rebuild synaptic connections. This book includes and supports the research I have done to support and improve brain function, and does it in a way that the layman can understand. It is very easy to read. Even though medical terms are included, everything is explained in a way that anyone can understand, and with supporting evidence. More recently release research has unveiled more supplements that may be necessary, such as PQQ to rebuild mitochondria, but the information is this book is still solid. So far, this is one of the best books on this subject that I have seen. The only change to information in it is that dosages for severely demented patients may need to be increased in order to see improvement. Since some things can be toxic if overdosed, you really need to do your research. Even so, I think this book is a great starting point. It can give you so many ideas and clues as to what you should research further. Even without further research, this book supplies a sound regiment to improve or maintain your own brain health, or to improve the brain function of one that you love. Dementia is definitely not an end-all. There are measures that you can take to stop the progression of dementia and even improve brain function. I have seen improvement in my mother, and am protecting my own brain with the knowledge that I have to do so. At age 66, I have recently completed an AS degree with a 4.0 GPA. I don't think that too bad for my age!

This is a great well rounded book to prevent and reverse again of your brain. An easy read and a wonderful non-threatening book to give to an elder who is starting to lose short term memory. There is an easy test at the beginning which will allow an elder afraid of admitting they are losing their memory to come to terms with it and realize it is a natural part of aging and there is something that can be done to recover full memory back. Written in 2004 the information is not dated and still very relevant. When something works to heal the brain, it never gets to be dated treatments. I looked at all of Perlmutter's books and this one seemed to be the best to give to an elderly person. Its a good tip to say its a preventative as it is easier to prevent than to reverse. An elder person won't feel threatened by saying its a preventive book. If you are told that they are too old to change just tell them, "you don't have to change just add a few things in" diet additions, exercise, puzzles, DHA fish oil, coconut oil...

Very interesting book written by a neurologist in Florida. Practice seems to specialize in dementias. Very good bibliography. Dr. P outlines a program that is comprehensive in terms of taking care of ourselves at any age. His section on supplements is very good, as he tells why he believes each supplement to be worthwhile, and actually mentions dosages. Also stresses the role of lifestyle, nutrition and exercise in taking care of our brains. He also has specific "exercises" we can do to maintain, or improve our cognition. I am always a little skeptical when this type of information is put forward by an individual vs. a group of clinicians. However there is a lot of crossover here with other things I have read, and journal articles as well. Dr. Gary Small's book "The Alzheimer's Prevention Program" complements this book. There is crossover with supplements and other areas. Dr. Small is at UCLA. I think the combination of the two books provide a lot of useful practical information for all of us who want to preserve our brains as long as possible.

I have heard and read a lot on David Perlmutter and always like his writings. Anything he writes is full of gold nuggets. This book was a good read. I felt that it offered a good yet safe supplement and herb strategy that's easy to follow for improving brain function. The book isn't too long either but to the point. Until reading this book, I never would have suspected how possibly helpful CoQ10 can be for the brain, no matter what age you are. If you're into brain health, this is definitely worth reading. Even if you're younger, it's of incredible value to be aware that a good nutrition/supplement strategy exists which can be helpful to you as you get older so you can start YOUNG at keeping your brain healthier and preventing neuro-degenerative diseases like Alzheimers and dementia. Preventing diseases starts many years before it even develops.

My husband is suffering Dementia and we are doing everything and anything to help prevent Alzheimer. "The Better Brain Book" was recommended to us by our Chiropractor. The author of this book, Dr. David Perlmutter, M.D. provides all the tools needed for rejuvenating the mind. His program is complete: how to protect the brain if taking drugs; what vitamins & supplements are beneficial for brain repair; toxins in the home that can effect mental function; lab tests or at-home tests to reveal how fast your brain is aging; how to change ones lifestyle to improve brain performance; which foods can help your brain; and what program is indivually right for you. The book also includes nutritional recipes. We are finding a new experience in each page of this very informative book and I am in great hopes that my husband will regain short-term memory by following Dr. Perlmutter's program.

While the diet recommended is superior to the Standard American Diet (SAD). I question the excessive use of supplements and consumption of excess unhealthy fats and protein in the recipes provided. The recommendations of animal-based food products and supplementation are suspect given the excellent clinical and demographic studies performed by Dr. Dean Ornish, Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr. and Professor T. Colin Campbell. These authors conducted peer-reviewed research that contradict some of the authors' opinions. In his book “Whole”, Professor Campbell describes many commonly held fallacies. It's unfortunate that supplements are not reviewed by the FDA because excess vitamins and other nutrients can block absorption of other essential nutrients. Long-term studies have shown that consumption of some excess nutrients actually shorten life expectancy. Contamination during the manufacturing process is common and the refined products leave out many important nutrients that exist in whole plant based foods. Overall, this book has some valuable information. For me, I was disappointed that the authors do not cite research to support opinions that are refuted by credible researchers.

Thank you, Dr. Perlmutter, for all your work and research regarding brain health. I first saw Dr. Perlmutter on PBS and what he said made sense to my. I was heartened to hear that one of his patients with what I have, Dystonia (mine is generalized, meaning throughout my body rather than one or two places), reported cessation of symptoms. Another, with Parkinson's, a related disorder, also enjoyed relief from symptoms after using the Grain Brain way of eating. I got my kitchen ready and plunged in. In less than a week, I had fewer "storms" where the brain sends mixed up messages to the muscles that causes jerking, twisting and contracture, and the episodes I did have were faar less harsh. I actually felt good!! That, in itself, is a miracle. Now, I goofed up by not getting and preparing a variety of foods. Within a few weeks were sick of fried eggs, deviled eggs and salad with tuna. We ended up going off the diet over the holidays, but I had lost about 12 pounds while on the diet quite easily. I heartily recommend Dr. Perlmutter's books and the diet he promotes. Just decide what recipes you'll be preparing and stock up. Try new herbs and spices. You can steal a few recipes from Atkins recipes,too, just substitute out soy, peanut, flour and a few other things. Otherwise, there's plenty to choose from. I am so grateful to Dr. Perlmutter for his work, which offers me an opportunity to reduce my pain, the degree of my disability and an opportunity to get back parts of my life I thought I had lost forever. Like they say, cost of Dr. Perlmutter's books- a few dollars, the cost of prepping your fridge and pantry-a few dollars more, getting your life back--now that's priceless.

Excellent, informative and up-to-date, a must-read for anyone interested in healthier lifestyle and nutrition. Sort of consolidates and updates everything I've read on nutrition thus far...I bought this book as a present for several family members as well. I'm about to re-read. I appreciate that he's able to explain things understandably enough for a layman. I also like the part on what to eat to support your microbiome, coupled with recipes. Though I'm not planning to make the recipes any time soon, when I do have the time, I know where to turn. I have read Dr. Perlmutter's previous book, also great, and have made several adjustments in my nutrition and lifestyle based on it - this one goes one step further at a time I'm ready to do so as well.

High quality book, quick delivery. A book to recommend to anyone.

First I read Grain Brain book. I was amazed at what I read. I changed my diet and gave away my bread machine. Good changes happened to my mind and body. Skin problems, read eyes disappeared, blouted stomac became flat, etc. It is quiet natural you want more good information. So I bought the following book of dr Perlmutter. I am learning more to improve my health. I have since way back suffered from unbalanced mood swings and depression and I feel more stabil and normal. Our brain is all omega 3 fat. I also am in contact via facebook and see all dr Perlmutters intervjus on youtube. I thank him for feeling so much more energetic enjoying good fats, instead of fruit, that made my unbalanced and tired.

I am so thankful for Dr. Perlmutter and his books. The Better Brain book was instrumental in opening my eyes to how bad my "very good eating habits" were. I've read over 20 books on this topic and this book is right up at the top of "I'm glad I learned this", and now my family and I are practicing it. If it's good for a "brain doctor", it was worth my time to read it. Dr. Perlmutter lays out exactly what the problem is and then offers a solid game plan. He gives you instruction and helps you on the pathway to real health. Many doctors do the best with what they've been taught. But Dr. Perlmutter gets to the core of the matter.

Excellent read to understand how our body works and how to keep it healthy. How to mitigate the incidence of chronic diseases. As well, how to keep the Brain active as one grows old.

I saw Dr. Palmutter on PBS and was very impressed by his presentation so naturally bought the book. I find it useful and inspirational and am trying for nearly a year now, to follow his advice.