Podcasts · Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD
211. Emma Heming Willis and Dr. Nicole Beurkens: Why Women Face a Higher Alzheimer's Risk—Menopause, Brain Fog & Prevention
· 1 h 10 min
Episode 211. Emma Heming Willis and Dr. Nicole Beurkens: Why Women Face a Higher Alzheimer's Risk—Menopause, Brain Fog & Prevention
What if the brain fog, forgetfulness, poor sleep, and mood changes so many women experience in midlife aren't just signs of getting older—but signals that their brains need more support?
Women account for nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer's cases, yet women's brain health has historically been overlooked in medical research and conversations about prevention. And as estrogen levels begin to change during perimenopause and menopause, those changes can affect everything from memory and mental clarity to metabolism, sleep, and emotional well-being.
In this episode, I'm joined by Emma Heming Willis, co-founder of Make Time Wellness, and Dr. Nicole Beurkens a clinical psychologist with a background in nutrition science, for an important conversation about women's brain health, hormonal changes, and what we can do today to support cognitive health as we age.
Emma shares her personal experience with brain fog, feeling dismissed by her doctor, and the lifestyle changes that inspired her mission to make brain health a priority for women. Together, we explore the science behind cognitive aging and the everyday habits that can make a meaningful difference.
In this episode, you'll learn:
• Why women face a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia • How declining estrogen during perimenopause and menopause can affect memory, focus, and brain energy • Why brain fog, forgetfulness, and sleep disturbances deserve attention • How chronic stress, trauma, and the demands of caregiving can affect brain health • The connection between chronic inflammation, metabolic health, and cognitive function • Why nutrition, protein, fiber, and reducing ultra-processed foods matter for brain health • How sleep supports memory, cognitive performance, and long-term brain health • What to know about brain health supplements, including rhodiola, curcumin, and other nutrients • What the emerging research suggests about hormone replacement therapy and women's cognitive health
We also discuss practical ways to prioritize self-care, manage stress, improve sleep habits, and build sustainable routines without adding another overwhelming responsibility to an already busy life.
The biggest takeaway? Brain health shouldn't become a priority only when memory problems begin.
Protecting your brain is part of protecting your future. And the choices we make around sleep, nutrition, movement, stress, and hormonal health can help us take a more proactive approach to aging.
Because longevity isn't simply about living longer. It's about maintaining the clarity, independence, and quality of life that allow us to enjoy those extra years.
Learn more about Dr. Shah:
Website: drshah.com
Clinic: next-health.com
Instagram: @darshanshahmd and @extend_podcast
Learn more about Emma Heming Willis and Dr. Nicole Beurkens
Website: drbeurkens.com and emmahemingwillis.com
Instagram: @emmahemingwillis, @drnicolebeurkens and @maketimewellness
Try Make Time Wellness at maketimewellness.com, use code EXTEND20 at checkout for 20% off as a gift to our listeners! Also available at Target, Amazon, Ulta, The Vitamin Shoppe and Meijer.
Thank You to Our Sponsor!
Momentous: Head to livemomentous.com and use my code DRSHAH at checkout for up to 35% off.
Links in the notes 5
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