Women’s Brain Health

Catalog description

Women are often the CEO of Family Health and the drivers of health where they live, learn, work, play, shop, and receive medical and wellness care. Addressing women’s brain health has far-reaching implications beyond personal well-being. Brain illnesses disproportionately affecting women contribute significantly to the global burden of brain-related conditions, costing the economy an estimated $5 trillion annually. By improving brain health through lifestyle interventions, we can enhance individual well-being, unlock millions of years of higher quality life, and support global economic growth. Throughout the semester, students will learn about multiple aspects of women’s brain health, performance, and brain illness, including depression, anxiety, stress and work-life balance, insomnia, migraines, hormonal imbalances, sexual health, brain fog, memory lapses, sleep disturbances, and the increased risk of dementia. The course introduces cutting-edge, evidence-based lifestyle approaches to protect the female brain, including a neuroprotective self-carenroutine incorporating a brain-healthy dietary pattern for women, stress reduction, physical activity, social wellness, positive psychology, and sleep. The course will also explore the controversy surrounding soy and hormone replacement therapy, along with the implications of environmental toxins and everyday consumer products, such as health and beauty goods, anti-aging procedures, insecticides, SPF products, lawn and garden chemicals, cleaning supplies, supplements, and nootropics. Additionally, it will delve into the critical role of the microbiome in brain health.