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Passion Struck with John R. Miles

How to Change Your Brain's Destiny Before It's Too Late | Dr. David Perlmutter – EP 809

August 20, 2026·1h 1m

What if protecting your brain from cognitive decline starts decades before you ever notice a problem? In this powerful conversation, John R. Miles sits down with neurologist and bestselling author Dr. David Perlmutter to explore the emerging science behind his new book, Brain Defenders, and why the brain’s immune system may hold one of the most important keys to long-term brain health. David explains how specialized immune cells called microglia can either support the brain or become destructive when challenged by inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, poor sleep, and other environmental factors. The hopeful part is that many of the factors influencing this process are within our control. You’ll learn: Why the brain’s immune system may be central to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, PTSD, and other brain disorders What microglial cells do and why their metabolism matters How poor sleep can affect inflammation after just one night Why exercise, metabolism, diet, and relationships all influence brain health The surprising connection between oral health and the brain Why traumatic brain injury and PTSD can share common biological pathways How alcohol, ultra-processed foods, and a sedentary lifestyle can affect the brain Why brain health should be addressed decades before cognitive decline appears What David thinks about supplements, vitamin D, B vitamins, and personalized testing What the emerging research on GLP-1 medications could mean for neurodegenerative disease Why David believes we are the architects of our brain’s destiny David also explains why he believes the conversation around Alzheimer’s needs to shift from simply treating disease after it appears to understanding and addressing the factors that may influence brain health much earlier in life. His message is ultimately one of agency: the choices you make today are helping shape the brain you will have tomorrow.