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dimayj's review
3.0
In this book, neurosurgeon and CNN chief medical correspondent, Dr Sanjay Gupta, provides a science-based guide about brain health, albeit with a focus on cognitive decline and lifestyle practices that could protect or delay brain decline.
The book starts with a self-assessment the reader can take to assess their risk for cognitive decline. Subsequent chapters are divided into 3 parts. The first part covers scientific facts about the brain, eight potential factors that can cause cognitive decline, and dispels myths about the brain. In the second part, the author provides 5 main lifestyle factors and practical strategies to improve brain function. Part 2 ends with a 12-week programme to implement these strategies. In part 3, the book focuses on diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative brain diseases and the challenges for patients and their caregivers.
The book was a little bit oversimplified, repetitive, and didn't offer anything revolutionary, especially if you've read books about brain health before. The "keep sharp" strategies were just the usual common-sense advice of eating healthy food, exercising, sleeping well, etc. Nevertheless, the book is a clear, science-backed, and enjoyable read. So, I would consider it as a self-help primer on brain health and would recommend it to readers with no background knowledge about the subject.
The book starts with a self-assessment the reader can take to assess their risk for cognitive decline. Subsequent chapters are divided into 3 parts. The first part covers scientific facts about the brain, eight potential factors that can cause cognitive decline, and dispels myths about the brain. In the second part, the author provides 5 main lifestyle factors and practical strategies to improve brain function. Part 2 ends with a 12-week programme to implement these strategies. In part 3, the book focuses on diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative brain diseases and the challenges for patients and their caregivers.
The book was a little bit oversimplified, repetitive, and didn't offer anything revolutionary, especially if you've read books about brain health before. The "keep sharp" strategies were just the usual common-sense advice of eating healthy food, exercising, sleeping well, etc. Nevertheless, the book is a clear, science-backed, and enjoyable read. So, I would consider it as a self-help primer on brain health and would recommend it to readers with no background knowledge about the subject.
marshaskrypuch's review
5.0
This is a clearly written guide that's chock full of practical suggestions on how to reduce one's risk of .brain decline. Nothing earth-shattering here, but this is thorough and useful.
#netgalley
#netgalley
jacklynruth's review
3.0
This book is full of great advice but it is too long and could have just been a short article in a magazine. I also was bothered by the know-it-all doctor tone of "if you do this exactly like me you'll have the same results as me" which doesn't leave room for differences in circumstances and inherited traits. Everyone is different. I recommend that you skim through this book, pick out the main ideas and then figure out how to make them work for you in your life.
rebekahjones's review against another edition
5.0
This book is life changing and I don’t say that lightly. I feel so motivated and inspired to change my lifestyle for the benefit of my brain. Sanjay Gupta is great at breaking down complex information and research for those of us who don’t have a science background, and he’s great at presenting that information in a motivating context.
I did not love every word or every chapter. I felt the chapter on nutrition missed important context, like income, food deserts, and the emotions tied to food, but I understand that wasn’t part of his point and it would have added a lot of pages to the book!
Nonetheless, I recommend this book to everyone I know because of its value. Thank you Sanjay Gupta!
I did not love every word or every chapter. I felt the chapter on nutrition missed important context, like income, food deserts, and the emotions tied to food, but I understand that wasn’t part of his point and it would have added a lot of pages to the book!
Nonetheless, I recommend this book to everyone I know because of its value. Thank you Sanjay Gupta!
rachelygr's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed this evidence-based medical book that gave interesting information and practical advice. Honestly none of the recommendations were radical but perhaps that just shows that staying healthy is more simple than we sometimes make it out to be. Gupta's 5 steps to brain health 1. Move your body everyday (I am encouraged that walking counts!) 2. Get at least 8 hours of restful sleep (practice good sleep cycles) 3. Eat well (yes to veggies, no to sugar) 4. Challenge your brain (life-long learning) 5. Remain connected (friendships and happiness affects physical health). I appreciate the book and enjoyed it.
moneal311's review against another edition
5.0
Wow! This book is without a doubt the best read on brain health and how to strengthen your cognitive abilities. I was blown away with the science behind what I read in this book. I borrowed it from the library, and have since ordered it in hardback. There are DEFINITELY pieces I want to reread and highlight! Amazing read!
bigsexy's review against another edition
4.0
The information in this book is so valuable. I took a long time reading it so I could mull over the information and slowly start making any changes I felt would help support a healthy brain. It’s worth the read.
spiffysarahruby's review
5.0
Like everyone else, I've had a difficult last year and a half. It's made me a stress ball and really affected my cognitive abilities (no joke, I'm signed up for tests in a few months). I was told to read this by one of my doctors and it honestly gave me comfort.
I wrote down the 12 week plan in my journal to refer to it and I was surprised to read how many of the suggestions Dr. Gupta gives are things my hubs and I have already started changing in our routines. There are still some I need to COMMIT to, but I feel like I'm on the right path for some cognitive/emotional recovery.
Here's to getting away from the idea I'm developing dementia before I turn 40!
I wrote down the 12 week plan in my journal to refer to it and I was surprised to read how many of the suggestions Dr. Gupta gives are things my hubs and I have already started changing in our routines. There are still some I need to COMMIT to, but I feel like I'm on the right path for some cognitive/emotional recovery.
Here's to getting away from the idea I'm developing dementia before I turn 40!
mmk4725's review
5.0
Thanks for keeping it simple - move & not a weird diet. The obvious of avoid the sugar. Yeah my oatmeal with fruit is on the okay list.