Brain health tips to improve mental health with Dr. Daniel Amen | FOX 10 Talks

Double board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Amen joins the program to discuss why he believes mental health issues should be rephrased as brain health issues. Drawing from what he states is the world's largest brain imaging database, Dr. Amen explains that conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis are rooted in the physical health of the brain. He outlines three simple principles for maintaining a healthy brain: loving the three pounds of fat between your ears, avoiding things that hurt it, and doing things that help it. During the discussion, Dr. Amen addresses the importance of nutrition, noting that eating right is critical for a healthy brain. He warns against processed sugar stripped of its fiber source, labeling it as toxic to the body, and instead recommends brain-boosting foods such as wild salmon, avocados, and green leafy vegetables. When asked by a viewer about helping individuals with dementia, he emphasizes that daily choices either accelerate or decelerate the condition, critiquing care facilities and hospitals that serve food that is not good for brain health. Dr. Amen also shares practical advice for managing stress, advising people not to believe every negative thought they have and to maintain control when things go wrong. He highlights the work done at his clinic in Scottsdale, where they treat a wide range of patients, including children with autism and ADD, and older adults concerned about Alzheimer's disease. To help individuals begin their brain health journey, he directs viewers to a quick, free assessment at brainhealthassessment.com and invites people to connect with him on Instagram.