EP 19: The 6 Pillars of Brain Health That Are Helping People Reverse Alzheimer’s

“The brain is more resilient than you think. When given the right tools, it can heal.”– Dr. Dale Bredesen

Imagine watching a loved one slowly lose themselves—forgetting names, places, and eventually the people they love most. For years, Alzheimer’s has been seen as an unstoppable disease, a thief of memories and independence. But what if it didn’t have to be? What if there was a way to reverse cognitive decline?

Groundbreaking research by Dr. Dale Bredesen is changing how we think about brain health. His revolutionary ReCODE protocol has helped hundreds of people not just stop Alzheimer’s in its tracks but actually reverse its symptoms. Today, we’re diving into the science no one is talking about and how you can protect your brain and the people you love.


What Is Alzheimer’s? (And Why Is It So Scary?)

Alzheimer’s is often called “the silent thief of memories.” It’s the most common form of dementia, affecting over 6 million people in the U.S. It often begins with small signs—forgetting names or losing track of conversations—but it doesn’t stop there. Over time, it can take away a person’s ability to think, speak, and even perform basic tasks like eating or getting dressed.

Doctors have spent decades focusing on one cause of Alzheimer’s: sticky plaques in the brain called amyloid. These plaques build up between brain cells, damaging the connections that allow us to think and remember. But here’s the problem: treatments targeting amyloid have failed 99.6% of the time.

So, what’s the real cause of Alzheimer’s? Dr. Bredesen believes it’s not just one thing but a combination of factors—36, to be exact.


Why Does Alzheimer’s Happen?

Think of your brain like a roof with 36 holes. If you only patch one hole, the roof will still leak. Alzheimer’s works the same way. It’s not caused by one single problem—it’s caused by a combination of issues that damage the brain over time.

The 3 Big Categories That Damage Your Brain:

  1. Inflammation
    • Inflammation is like a fire in your brain, often triggered by poor diet, chronic stress, or infections. This “fire” damages brain cells and makes it hard for your brain to heal.
  2. Nutrient Deficiencies
    • Your brain needs nutrients to function properly. Without enough vitamin D, B12, omega-3s, or zinc, your brain can’t stay healthy.
  3. Toxins
    • Exposure to heavy metals, mold, or harmful chemicals can poison your brain over time, causing memory problems and cognitive decline.

Here’s something surprising: Alzheimer’s is sometimes called “Type 3 Diabetes” because high blood sugar and insulin resistance—common in diabetes—can starve your brain of energy.


Can Alzheimer’s Be Reversed?

Yes, it can. And the science is giving families hope.

Take Kristin’s story. Kristin was in her 60s when she started forgetting phone numbers and getting lost while driving. She had watched her mother suffer from Alzheimer’s and thought she was doomed to the same fate. But after starting Dr. Bredesen’s ReCODE protocol, Kristin’s memory began to improve. Within a year, she was back at work and feeling like herself again.

Kristin isn’t alone. Dr. Bredesen’s ReCODE protocol has helped hundreds of people reverse cognitive decline by addressing the 36 factors that contribute to Alzheimer’s. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s a personalized plan that gives your brain the tools it needs to heal.


The 6 Pillars of Reversing Alzheimer’s

Dr. Bredesen’s ReCODE protocol focuses on six key areas to protect and heal your brain.

1. Brain-Healthy Diet (Ketoflex 12/3)

  • Eat plenty of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
  • Avoid sugar, processed foods, and refined carbs. These can increase inflammation and damage your brain.
  • Try fasting for 12 to 16 hours overnight. This gives your brain time to detox and repair.

2. Exercise

  • Move your body for at least 30 minutes a day. Walking, yoga, or even dancing can improve blood flow to your brain.
  • Exercise also releases a molecule called BDNF, which helps protect and grow brain cells.

3. Sleep

  • Aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep each night.
  • During deep sleep, your brain clears out toxins that build up during the day.

4. Stress Management

  • Chronic stress releases cortisol, a hormone that can damage your brain over time.
  • Practice meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to lower stress. Even laughing can help!

5. Toxin Removal

  • Get rid of mold and avoid heavy metals like mercury.
  • Use air filters and eat organic foods to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

6. Key Nutrients

  • Make sure your diet includes essential nutrients like vitamin D, B12, omega-3s, and zinc. These are the “fuel” your brain needs to stay sharp.

Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s often starts with small changes. Here are 5 early warning signs to watch for:

  1. Forgetting names, dates, or recent events.
  2. Struggling to find the right words.
  3. Getting lost in familiar places.
  4. Feeling mentally foggy or fatigued.
  5. Trouble focusing, planning, or solving problems.

These aren’t just “senior moments.” Catching these signs early can make a huge difference.


How to Get Started

If you’re worried about memory loss—whether it’s for yourself or someone you love—here’s what you can do:

  1. Schedule a “Cognoscopy”
    • This is a full evaluation of your brain health, including blood tests to check for inflammation, toxins, and nutrient levels.
  2. Start the Ketoflex 12/3 Diet
    • Begin with small changes, like replacing sugary snacks with nuts or adding more leafy greens to your meals.
  3. Move More
    • Even a 20-minute walk can make a difference.
  4. Optimize Sleep
    • Set a regular bedtime and avoid screens 1 to 2 hours before bed.
  5. Manage Stress
    • Try 5 minutes of guided meditation or deep breathing each day.
  6. Consult a Specialist
    • Work with a functional medicine doctor to create a personalized plan.

Real Stories of Hope

Kristin isn’t the only success story. Here are two more:

  • Dr. Laura’s Journey: A doctor in her 50s began forgetting patient names and losing focus at work. After following the ReCODE protocol, her memory and energy returned, and she’s now using the same approach to help her patients.
  • Eleanor’s Triumph: Eleanor, in her 40s, struggled with memory lapses and word-finding issues. Within months of starting the protocol, she felt sharp again and even regained her ability to speak multiple languages.

These stories prove that Alzheimer’s doesn’t have to be the end of the road.

Your Brain Can Heal—But You Need to Take Action

Alzheimer’s is no longer a hopeless diagnosis. The science is clear: with the right tools, your brain can heal. By addressing the root causes of cognitive decline, you can protect your memories and even reverse early symptoms.

Don’t wait. Start your journey to better brain health today. Share this post with someone you love, and let’s spread the hope that Alzheimer’s can be reversed.

Want to learn more? Follow us for tips on reversing cognitive decline.

Listen to the podcast on Spotify here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nassau-health-foods—ste

Visit us today and let’s take this journey together.

EP 18: 5 Heart Disease Symptoms Women Should Never Ignore (And What to Do About Them)

“Take care of your heart. It’s the only one you have.”– Steve Adams

Your heart is like the engine of a car—powerful, reliable, and essential. It works tirelessly every day to keep your body running, but just like any engine, it needs proper care and maintenance. For women, heart health is especially important because heart disease is the number one cause of death worldwide.

The good news? Heart disease is preventable in most cases, and even if you’re already at risk, small changes can help you reverse the damage. At Nassau Health Foods, we believe in empowering women with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to live healthier, longer lives.

In this blog, we’ll explain why heart health matters for women, uncover the early warning signs, and share simple steps to prevent and even reverse heart disease.


Why Heart Disease Is a Women’s Issue

Imagine this: Jessica, a 45-year-old mom of two, feels tired all the time. She chalks it up to her busy schedule—work, kids, and everything in between. Then one day, she feels short of breath walking up the stairs. She ignores it, thinking, “I just need more rest.” Months later, Jessica experiences chest discomfort and learns she’s had a minor heart attack.

Jessica’s story is common. Many women don’t know the symptoms of heart disease, and they’re often very different from men’s. While men might feel sharp chest pain during a heart attack, women may experience more subtle signs like:

  • Extreme fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea or lightheadedness
  • Pain in the back, neck, or jaw
  • Mild chest discomfort

These symptoms can be easy to overlook, which is why heart disease is sometimes called “the silent killer” for women.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can take control of your heart health.


What Causes Heart Disease?

Heart disease doesn’t happen overnight—it’s like rust forming on a pipe. Over time, things like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, poor diet, and stress can damage your blood vessels. This damage causes inflammation, which leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, restricting blood flow to your heart.

For women, there’s an added challenge: microvascular disease. This is when the tiniest blood vessels—the ones that deliver oxygen and nutrients to your body—become inflamed or damaged. Microvascular disease often doesn’t show up on traditional heart tests, which is why early detection is so important.


The Power of Early Detection

At Nassau Health Foods, we offer Glycocheck Screening, a cutting-edge test that checks the health of your microvascular system.

Here’s why this matters:

  • It’s painless and non-invasive. No needles or discomfort—just a quick test.
  • It catches hidden risks. Glycocheck looks at the tiny blood vessels traditional tests miss.
  • It gives you a plan. With your results, we can create a personalized heart health plan to address any risks.

Think of Glycocheck Screening as your heart’s early warning system. It’s the best way to catch problems before they turn into something serious.


5 Steps to Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease

Taking care of your heart doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Let’s dive into five simple steps you can take today.

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Your diet is like fuel for your heart. Fill your plate with foods that nourish and protect it, such as:

  • Fruits and vegetables: Think of bright, colorful foods like berries, leafy greens, and carrots.
  • Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, and nuts are great options.
  • Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oats are full of fiber, which helps lower cholesterol.
  • Lean proteins: Choose fish like salmon or plant-based options like beans and lentils.

Avoid foods high in trans fats, sugar, and salt. Processed foods are like junk fuel—they clog up your heart’s “engine” and slow it down.


2. Stay Active

Exercise is like a tune-up for your heart. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym—even 30 minutes of movement a day can make a big difference.

Here are some easy ways to stay active:

  • Take a walk after dinner.
  • Try yoga or stretching to relax and strengthen your body.
  • Dance in your living room—yes, it counts!

Regular exercise helps improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and keep your heart strong.


3. Manage Stress

Stress is like a storm that puts extra pressure on your heart. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that can raise your blood pressure and cause inflammation.

Here’s how to calm the storm:

  • Practice mindfulness or meditation for 5 minutes a day.
  • Write in a journal to release your thoughts.
  • Take deep breaths when you feel overwhelmed.

Managing stress isn’t just good for your heart—it’s good for your mind and overall well-being.


4. Get Enough Sleep

Think of sleep as your body’s repair shop. During deep sleep, your body heals and recharges, which is essential for heart health.

Tips for better sleep:

  • Stick to a consistent bedtime.
  • Avoid screens before bed—they can disrupt your sleep cycle.
  • Create a calming bedtime routine, like reading or drinking herbal tea.

Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Your heart will thank you.


5. Take Revasca Heart Supplements

Supplements can give your heart an extra boost, and that’s where Revasca Heart Supplements shine. Think of Revasca as a daily dose of love for your heart.

Revasca benefits:

  • Improves circulation: Keeps blood flowing smoothly.
  • Reduces inflammation: Protects your blood vessels from damage.
  • Strengthens your heart: Provides key nutrients for long-term health.

Adding Revasca to your routine is an easy way to support your heart every day. Stop by Nassau Health Foods to pick up your bottle!

Take Charge of Your Heart Health Today

Your heart works hard for you every day. Now it’s your turn to care for it.

Here’s how Nassau Health Foods can help:

  1. Schedule a Glycocheck Screening: Call us at (904) 277-3158 or visit our store.
  2. Try Revasca Heart Supplements: Pick up your bottle today.
  3. Join the Thrive Membership: Get personalized health plans and exclusive discounts.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Prevention starts now. Your heart—and your future—are worth it.


Final Thoughts

Heart health is a journey, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With small, consistent changes and the right tools, you can protect and even reverse heart disease. At Nassau Health Foods, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Visit us today and let’s take this journey together.

EP 04: Beating the Heart Attack Gene

Are you playing Russian roulette with your heart health? Imagine having a ticking time bomb in your chest, but instead of being helpless, you hold the detonator – and the power to disarm it. That’s exactly what understanding your genetic predisposition to heart disease can feel like. But here’s the twist: your genes don’t have to be your destiny.

“It’s not about the genes you’re dealt, but how you play your hand.”

Beat the Heart Attack Gene: Your Organic Path to Heart Health Transformation

“Think of your genetic makeup as a roadmap. It shows potential routes your health might take, but you’re still the driver, making choices at every turn,” says Steve Adams, host of Nassau Health Food Store Podcast. This powerful metaphor encapsulates a revolutionary truth about cardiovascular health that’s changing lives across Amelia Island and beyond.
Recent research has unveiled a startling fact: the 9P21 gene can increase your heart attack risk by up to 102%. Let that sink in. That’s like having a loaded gun pointed at your heart – but here’s the good news: you can choose to put the safety on.

Why Your Current Approach Might Be Failing You

Every day, countless Americans follow the same old advice: watch your cholesterol, check your blood pressure, maybe take a daily aspirin. But here’s what your doctor might not be telling you: these traditional approaches barely scratch the surface of heart disease prevention.


Think about it: would you try to navigate a modern city with a map from the 1950s? That’s essentially what you’re doing when you rely solely on conventional heart health wisdom. The landscape of cardiovascular health has evolved dramatically, yet many of us are stuck using outdated guidance.

The Revolutionary Approach That’s Changing Everything

Enter the Bale Doneen method, a groundbreaking approach highlighted in “Beat the Heart Attack Gene.” This isn’t your grandmother’s heart health strategy – it’s a sophisticated, personalized roadmap that considers:

  • Arterial inflammation
  • Insulin resistance
  • Oral health (yes, your dental health is directly linked to heart disease!)
  • Sleep quality
  • Stress levels

“It’s like having a tailor-made suit for your heart health, fitted perfectly to your unique needs and risks,” explains Adams. This personalized approach is revolutionizing how we think about heart disease prevention.

The Organic Solution You’ve Been Missing

Here’s where things get really interesting. Your daily food choices aren’t just about calories or taste – they’re literally reprogramming your genes. This is where the power of organic foods comes into play.


Think of your body as a high-performance car. Sure, it might run on regular gas, but put premium, clean fuel in the tank, and watch how it performs. Organic foods are your body’s premium fuel, helping to:

  • Reduce inflammation naturally
  • Support healthy gene expression
  • Provide clean, untainted nutrients your heart craves
  • Minimize exposure to harmful pesticides and GMOs

The Cost of Waiting

“Every day you delay making the switch to organic, you’re potentially exposing yourself and your loved ones to harmful pesticides and GMOs,” warns Adams. This isn’t just about missing out on better nutrition – it’s about actively choosing a path that could be harming your heart health.


Consider this: if you knew your car’s brake fluid was slowly degrading, would you wait until they failed to replace it? That’s exactly what many of us are doing with our hearts by postponing the switch to organic, whole foods.

Your Path to a Healthier Heart Starts Here

The journey to optimal heart health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s your action plan:

  • Understand Your Genetic Landscape Start with genetic testing to understand your personal risk factors. Knowledge truly is power when it comes to heart health.
  • Embrace the Power of Organic Make the switch to organic foods gradually but consistently. Your heart will thank you with every beat.
  • Implement the Bale Doneen Method Work with healthcare providers who understand this comprehensive approach to heart health.
  • Monitor and Adjust Remember, health isn’t static – your approach shouldn’t be either.

Take Control of Your Heart Health Today


Ready to take the first step toward optimal heart health? The power to transform your cardiovascular health lies within your grasp. Visit OptimalHealthAssessment.com to take our comprehensive health assessment and receive a personalized roadmap to heart health excellence.
Don’t wait for a wake-up call to start taking care of your heart. As the saying goes, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago; the second-best time is now. The same applies to your heart health journey.


Take action today. Your future self – and your heart – will thank you.


Schedule Your Optimal Health Assessment Now


Remember: Your genes load the gun, but your lifestyle pulls the trigger. Choose wisely, choose organic, choose life.

“Every day you delay switching to organic, you may expose yourself to harmful pesticides and GMOs. Plus, you’re missing out on superior taste and nutritional benefits.”

For heart-healthy organic products, shop online or visit our local store at Amelia Island!

Your map to healthy eating.

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