Episode #21: Addressing Brain Drain: The Impact of Grains on Mental Health

Functional Health Radio

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is recognized as a forward-thinking expert in the field of functional health. In her pursuit to better understand the intricacies of human health and wellness, she has become a notable figure in healthcare, empowering individuals to realize their full potential. Although specific details about her professional history and achievements are not provided in the transcript, Dr. Hieshetter's extensive knowledge is reflected in her informative discourse on functional health, particularly concerning brain health and the effects of diet on chronic diseases.

Episode Summary:

In this compelling episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delivers a powerful narrative discussing the alarming decline in life expectancy in the United States, correlating it with the high prevalence of chronic illnesses in the population. She raises critical questions about the effectiveness of the current healthcare spending and explores potential strategies for enhancing vitality and wellness.

Dr. Hieshetter emphasizes the importance of constructing a lifestyle that promotes brain health, urging listeners to consider the detrimental impact of grain consumption. She adeptly weaves scientific evidence into the narrative, making a strong case for a grain-free diet as a path toward improved cognitive functions and overall health. She supports her arguments with credible studies and statistics that are sure to captivate the audience's attention and potentially inspire life-altering dietary changes.

Key Takeaways:

• The life expectancy in the United States has been declining, and this is paralleled by rising rates of chronic illnesses in children and adults.
• A considerable portion of healthcare spending is seemingly ineffective in addressing heart disease, cancer, and overall life expectancy issues.
• Dr. Hieshetter strongly advocates for a grain-free diet to avoid 'brain drain' and chronic inflammation which she links to an array of health problems, including cognitive decline.
• Clinical studies have demonstrated the connection between grain consumption and mental health issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and even schizophrenia.
• Proactive management of diet and nutritional supplementation, particularly omega fatty acids, can make a significant difference in brain health and development.

Notable Quotes:

• “We are walking around in the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting, and aware system in the world, the human body.”
• “Brain drain is also known as what I like to call grain brain.”
• “When the gut leaks, the brain leaks.”
• “These anti-anxiety meds…increased 45% in little girls, 37% in little boys. More than 30% of adult females are taking an anti-anxiety med.”
• “Depressed individuals are 230% more likely to have celiac disease.”

Resources:

• David Perlmutter's book "Grain Brain"
• William Davis's book "Undoctored"
• Robert Lustig's book "The Hacking of the American Mind"
• Articles referenced during the show are not linked but include works from Pediatrics, Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology, Archives of Internal Medicine, and the Journal of Pain Medicine News.
• Functional Health Mastery

Join us for the full episode of Functional Health Radio for a deep dive with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter to unearth the complexities of our declining health spans and learn practical steps to reclaim our cognitive vitality. Don't miss out on this knowledgeable journey, and make sure to tune in for more enlightening episodes that aim to transform your understanding of functional health.