#283 - Brain health explained: Insulin resistance, biomarkers, and Alzheimer’s risk | Dr. David Perlmutter & Mike Haney

#283 - Brain health explained: Insulin resistance, biomarkers, and Alzheimer’s risk | Dr. David Perlmutter & Mike Haney

1:09:47 Oct 9, 2025
About this episode
Alzheimer’s and dementia aren’t just a matter of age or genetics. Increasing evidence shows that metabolic health—particularly insulin resistance—plays a key role in cognitive decline.In this episode of A Whole New Level, neurologist and bestselling author Dr. David Perlmutter joins Mike Haney to explore the links between brain health and metabolism. They discuss the role of insulin resistance and inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease, the biomarkers that can reveal risk decades before symptoms, and how lifestyle interventions can dramatically change your trajectory.Topics include:Key biomarkers for assessing brain health: fasting insulin, A1C, homocysteineWhy targeting inflammation may matter more than targeting amyloid plaquesThe promise and limitations of GLP-1 medications for dementia and Parkinson’sPractical steps you can take now to protect long-term cognitive functionSign Up to Get Your Free Ultimate Guide to Glucose: https://levels.link/wnl ? What Dr. David Perlmutter & Mike Haney discuss:4:12 — Why Alzheimer’s is now called “Type 3 diabetes”9:45 — The role of inflammation in brain health15:22 — Biomarkers that predict dementia risk decades early22:31 — Why mainstream Alzheimer’s drugs fall short29:17 — GLP-1s and brain health36:44 — Lifestyle changes vs. pharmaceuticals44:19 — Why homocysteine matters53:02 — Sleep, circadian rhythm, and brain resilience1:02:38 — Early warning signs you shouldn’t ignore1:15:07 — The hopeful messageLevels helps you see how food affects your health, empowering you with the tools needed to achieve health goals and improve healthspan. Levels Members gain access to the Levels app and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), providing real-time feedback on how diet and lifestyle choices impact your metabolic health.Look for new shows every month on A Whole New Level, where we have in-depth conversations with thought leaders about metabolic health.? Helpful links:Watch the conversation: https://youtu.be/MV_9nyAN1VkFind us on YouTube: https://youtube.com/levelshealth?sub_confirmation=1? Connect:Dr. David Perlmutter on X: @DavidPerlmutterDavid Perlmutter, MD: ?https://drperlmutter.com/?
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