Your Brain is at Risk. Are You Carrying a Toxic Backlog?

We're facing the fastest-growing brain disorder in the world: Parkinson's disease (PD). PD is a gradually progressing neurodegenerative condition that is marked by a loss of motor coordination along with non-motor features. Doctors say the principal cause is not genetic (only 13% of cases), but the environmental backlog we carry is also believed to contribute to its development. The risk of developing PD increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in people over 60.

Multiple factors are believed to contribute to or increase the risk of developing PD:

• Genetic - mutations in certain genes, such as PARKIN, PINK1, and LRRK2

• Oxidative Stress - an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the brain that can damage dopamine-producing neurons (which play a crucial role in bodily functions such as movement, cognition, reward system, and emotion)

• Other - head trauma, smoking, and certain medications

The invisible threat is chemicals outside of us. They're in our air, water, and homes. They are creating a toxic burden that threatens your most vital organ.

The Invisible Threats:

• Pesticides and herbicides (near farms, golf courses)

• Dry Cleaning Solvents (PCE, TCE)

• Air Pollution (especially in urban areas) - fine particulate matter (dust, dirt, smoke), nitrogen dioxide (burning fossil fuels, particularly from vehicles), and carbon monoxide (colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion, often from traffic)

• Heavy metals (iron, mercury, manganese, copper, lead)

This backlog doesn't just show up as joint pain; it’s a silent threat to your future movement and mind. What's the point of living longer without better health?

Proactive Steps:

• Air: Use carbon filter purifiers to remove volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) indoors.

• Water: Test private wells and use carbon filters (under-sink or pitcher).

• Awareness: Research your area for risks like Superfund sites or heavy pesticide use.

To be Young At Any Age, you must start clearing this external backlog today. My upcoming book, Young at Any Age: How to Feel Younger, Longer, breaks down the simple science of identifying and minimizing the toxic and metabolic backlogs that steal your energy and health. Stay tuned!