BRAIN HEALTH AND HOW OUR NUTRITIONAL NEEDS CHANGE AS WE AGE | DR. REETA ACHARI

Elderhood & WisdomAgingHealth & WellnessDietary Needs
Written By Mellisa Reeves
 
 
“It takes time and effort and a certain kind of mindset to think about feeding ourselves as being the most important thing we do every day.”
— Dr. Reeta Achari
 

In this eye-opening episode, we're joined Dr. Madhureeta Achari, fondly known as Dr. Reeta, a seasoned neurologist with over 25 years of experience based in Houston, TX. Dr. Reeta, who began her private practice Integrated Neurology in 2020, masterfully combines her extensive clinical training with a passion for nutrition and Ayurveda, offering a holistic approach to patient care.

In this rich conversation Dr. Reeta shares her insights into how our nutritional needs evolve as we age, especially during significant life transitions. She challenges the conventional narratives about aging, offering a refreshing perspective that combines modern medicine with time-honored wisdom. We cover everything from the complexities of dietary choices, the impact of our food on brain health, and the importance of social connections and continuous learning in maintaining mental and physical health as we age. Dr. Reeta's personal anecdotes and her warm approach to tackling modern dietary challenges make this such an approachable and relatable episode. Dr. Reeta encourages us to embrace the changes that come with aging and to nourish our bodies and minds thoughtfully.

You’ll find this episode as practical as it is inspiring! Get ready to take notes.

 

Episode highlights

  • The fascinating interplay between diet, micronutrients, and brain health. Also - how common are nutrient deficiencies?

  • The importance of culturally relevant diets and the wisdom in traditional food combinations

  • food deserts, disordered eating, and the impact of hyperpalatable foods in Western culture

  • How nutritional needs evolve in our 40s and 50s, and why certain vitamins become crucial

  • The reason why animal protein is the most absorbable, high quality protein available (and what to eat instead if you can’t/don’t eat animal protein)

  • Insights into how exercise, particularly walking, and social connections contribute significantly to aging well

 

Our Guest - Dr. Reeta Achari

Dr. Madhureeta Achari, affectionately known as Dr. Reeta, is a distinguished neurologist with a career spanning over 25 years, currently practicing in Houston. With a deep commitment to holistic health, she established her private practice, Integrated Neurology, in 2020, where she integrates her extensive clinical expertise with her profound knowledge in nutrition and Ayurveda. Dr. Reeta's journey in medicine began with roots in a family deeply entrenched in the medical field, but her path was uniquely shaped by her love for stories and human experiences. She holds a degree in biochemistry and molecular biology and pursued a unique combination of medical science and art history, reflecting her multifaceted interests. Her practice goes beyond conventional neurology, focusing on the interplay of diet, lifestyle, and neurological health. Dr. Reeta is an advocate for personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes, especially in the context of aging, and is deeply involved in community outreach, promoting a greater understanding of the role of food in maintaining optimal brain health. Her upcoming book aims to distill her extensive knowledge and experience into accessible wisdom for a broader audience.

 
“We need to think about how we uncouple from manipulated food relationships and it’s not easy. There’s so much wrapped up in food — our emotions, our family traditions, our health, our memories.”
— Dr. Reeta Achari
 

Resources

Mellisa Reeves
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