Episode 181

181: Your Brain Runs on Light: A PhD Neuroscientist on Near-Infrared Therapy and Cognitive Health

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PhD neuroscientist Ramona von Leden joins Meredith to connect the dots between light, sleep, mitochondrial health, and neurodegeneration. What's actually happening in an Alzheimer's brain? Why is sleep disruption the biggest modifiable risk factor? And what does near-infrared light have to do with clearing amyloid beta? A science-grounded, practical conversation for anyone navigating neurodegeneration in their family — or trying to prevent it.

Timestamps

00:00 Sleep, Light, and Brain Health
01:07 Why Doctors Often Miss the Role of Light
03:07 Meet Ramona von Leden
04:48 Circadian Tools and Sponsors
05:32 Ramona’s Neuroscience Background
08:15 Why Energetics Matter More Than Drugs
10:55 The Future Beyond Pharmaceuticals
15:21 Why Neurodegeneration Is Increasing
18:42 Mitochondria and Metabolism Basics
21:33 Circadian Disruption and Sleep Loss
25:26 Streetlights, Sleep, and Alzheimer’s Risk
31:36 Inflammation and Brain Fog
32:44 Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Parkinson’s
36:52 Brain vs Nervous System
37:49 The Brain–Nervous System Feedback Loop
38:17 Mitochondria and Neurodegeneration
40:14 Caregiver Routines and Sleep Support
42:08 Movement, Light, and Screen Hygiene
46:12 Technology Overload and Stress
50:35 Autonomic Nervous System Basics
52:42 Near-Infrared Helmet Demonstration
57:35 User Results and Sleep Improvements
01:00:56 The Future of Supportive Brain Medicine
01:06:04 Where to Learn More
01:07:32 Outro and Resources

Resources mentioned

Neuronic light helmet: neuronic.online
Hello Brain Podcast (Ramona's podcast)
Winback America Medical Affairs
Braino vation Network
Outdoor Nighttime Light Pollution Exposure Study

Connect with Ramona Von Leden, PhD

Website: neuronic.online

Podcast: Hello Brain Podcast

Socials: @inthezonawithramona @neuronic

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From our sponsor:

For red light therapy devices, blue blocking glasses, circadian friendly nightlights & more, visit boncharge.com and enter QBC in the discount box at checkout.

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Download to your device from the App Store, use code QBCPOD. Make it easy to get your light right: this app tracks everything you need to have a circadian optimised life.

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