The Truth About Nicotine: Alzheimer’s, Brain Health, & Focus

Video Description

Have you ever thought of nicotine as only dangerous? This conversation might change the way you see it. Vanderbilt neuroscientist and psychiatrist Dr. Paul Newhouse joins me to explore what decades of research reveal about nicotine’s surprising effects on memory, mood, and brain health. We dive into: • Why nicotine is not the same as tobacco • The groundbreaking MIND Trial on nicotine and Alzheimer’s • How nicotine may support attention, focus, and ADHD symptoms • Links between nicotine and depression, Parkinson’s, and long COVID brain fog • Whether nicotine can regulate mood, anxiety, or even weight • The truth about addiction, delivery methods, and dosage ✨ This episode challenged so many assumptions I had about nicotine. It’s a fascinating look at separating fact from fear and exploring what role this ancient plant compound might play in modern medicine. ✨ Homework: After listening, write down one health or wellness belief you’ve always accepted as fact—and ask yourself, “Is it actually true?” LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6dBAMh1qc4ML7xxbYwYwNj?si=176Z5KT4Sn-dykV4fGFCCA Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-liz-moody-podcast/id1398442165 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lizmoody Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & Dr. Newhouse’s background 02:45 What nicotine does in the brain 05:33 Is nicotine safe without tobacco? 06:58 The MIND Trial on Alzheimer’s & memory 10:55 Can nicotine prevent Alzheimer’s? 16:53 Where prevention research is headed 19:29 Surprising effects of smoking & Parkinson’s 23:01 Nicotine & ADHD research 24:51 Why biohackers use nicotine for focus 28:54 Nicotine and depression studies 31:58 Dosing: does more equal better? 35:05 Nicotine and long COVID brain fog 42:02 Nicotine, hormones & menopause 43:54 Nicotine and sleep 45:51 Fertility, heart health & blood pressure 47:30 Weight loss effects of nicotine 48:35 Mood regulation & stress relief 49:51 Why nicotine isn’t a miracle cure 52:09 Best delivery methods & dosing advice 53:40 Biggest misconceptions about nicotine 54:38 Outro & reflections If you’re new here, I’m Liz Moody! I’m a longtime journalist, thought leader, and best-selling author. I host The Liz Moody Podcast where every week, we’re sharing real science, real stories, and realistic tools that ACTUALLY level up every part of your life. If you want to know more, visit my website at www.lizmoody.com. You can also check me out on The TODAY Show with Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager: https://youtu.be/pIE6JJ50CNM?si=-wnv2zF9ft9fqWZw CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizmoody/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lizmoody Substack: https://lizmoody.substack.com/welcome Order my book 100 Ways to Change Your Life: The Science of Leveling Up Health, Happiness, Relationships & Success: https://www.100waystochangeyourlife.com Website: https://www.lizmoody.com Discount codes: https://www.lizmoody.com/codes Liz Moody Podcast Club Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thelizmoodypodcast CONNECT WITH DR. PAUL NEWHOUSE: Website: https://www.vumc.org/ccm/person/paul-newhouse-md LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-newhouse-m-d-8462724/ Disclaimer: This podcast represents the opinions of Liz Moody and her guests. It is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your wellness routine. The Liz Moody Podcast Episode 367 #lizmoody #lizmoodypodcast #nicotine #brainhealth #alzheimers #ADHD #mentalhealth #focus #longcovid #wellnesspodcast