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Preventing Alzheimer’s: Diet, Air Pollution & Brain Health | Dr. Austin Perlmutter
Episode 6119th March 2026 • Alzheimer’s Breakthrough with Dr. Josh Helman, MD • Dr. Josh Helman, MD
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Could simple lifestyle changes be the key to preventing Alzheimer’s? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Austin Perlmutter, a physician, researcher, and New York Times best-selling author. Dr. Perlmutter's work focuses on Alzheimer's prevention and how our everyday choices impact long-term brain health. His unique approach blends neuroscience, lifestyle medicine, and environmental health.


Dr. Perlmutter explains how inflammation in the brain often leads to cognitive decline, and why it’s essential to focus on prevention before reaching the point of irreversible damage. He highlights lifestyle interventions, such as regular exercise, eating a minimally processed diet, and getting out in nature. He also discusses the importance of air quality, which many people overlook as a major factor in brain health.


We explore practical ways to mitigate these risks and optimize cognitive function for decades to come, so if you're looking for actionable steps to protect your brain and reduce Alzheimer's risk, this episode has the insights you need.


“I think we’ve seen some pretty compelling literature suggesting that simply exposing yourself to or getting out in nature is a health intervention, particularly for the brain.”

~ Dr. Austin Perlmutter


In this Episode

07:09 - The chronic disease crisis and brain health

09:16 - Chronic inflammation as a major driver of Alzheimer’s

10:34 - The importance of inflammation management in Alzheimer's prevention

20:40 - Diet and air quality for Alzheimer’s prevention

21:44 - Air pollution: the hidden threat affecting brain health

29:19 - Polyphenols and their protective impact on brain health

36:01 - How nature exposure can reduce stress and improve cognitive function

43:19 - Dr. Perlmutter's diet for long-term health

50:49 - Recommended supplements for optimal health

52:33 - Dr. Perlmutter's final thoughts on protecting your brain


Resources:

- Top Supplements for Alzheimer's Guide - https://bit.ly/drjoshguide

- Brain Wash by Dr. Austin Perlmutter & Dr. David Perlmutter - https://drperlmutter.com/books/brain-wash/


Connect with Dr. Austin Perlmutter:

- Website - https://austinperlmutter.com

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@draustinperlmutter

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/draustinperlmutter/


Connect with Dr. Josh Helman, MD:

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/greenbrainsMD

- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/greenbrainsmd/

- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doctorjosh

- TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@greenbrainsmd

- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUMtFP2icmNEhOaSsd-CrSg?sub_confirmation=1

- Others - https://linktr.ee/greenbrainsmd


Disclaimer: Please remember that this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment plan.

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