This conversation explores nutritional cognitive neuroscience, an interdisciplinary field examining the bidirectional relationships among nutrition, cognition, brain health, and eating behavior. The discussion covers how dietary influences operate across biological, psychological, environmental, and sociocultural levels, including neuroplasticity, inflammation, reward processes, genetics, and access to healthy foods. It reviews emerging research on nutrient profiles, the gut–brain axis, and dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets, while emphasizing that evidence for isolated supplements or "brain foods" is often limited or overstated. The conversation also highlights substantial individual variability in nutritional needs. For neuropsychologists, the central takeaway is to address nutrition as one component of broader brain health, provide measured and realistic guidance, and collaborate with qualified nutrition professionals when individualized recommendations are needed. Show notes are available at www.NavNeuro.com/198 _________________ If you'd like to support the show, here are a few easy ways: 1) Get CE credits for listening to select episodes: www.NavNeuro.com/INS (for step-by-step guidance, go to: www.NavNeuro.com/CEguide) 2) Subscribe (free) and leave an Apple Podcasts rating/review: www.NavNeuro.com/itunes 3) Check out our book Becoming a Neuropsychologist, and leave it an Amazon rating Thanks for listening, and join us next time as we continue to navigate the brain and behavior! [Note: This podcast and all linked content is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of psychology or any other professional healthcare advice and services. No professional relationship is formed between hosts and listeners. All content is to be used at listeners' own risk. Users should always seek appropriate medical and psychological care from their licensed healthcare provider.]

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related