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Brain Defenders

Harness the Power of Your Immune Cells to Protect Your Brain for Life
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Brain Defenders

By: David Perlmutter
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About this listen

 'A science-based, actionable blueprint to shift the brain from decline to repair.' ― Dr David Sinclair, Professor of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, and New York Times bestselling author of Lifespan

A ground-breaking new book from the bestselling author Dr David Perlmutter that will transform our understanding and treatment of degenerative brain diseases that are afflicting people around the world.

In recent years microglia cells housed in the brain have been identified as playing a key role in a host of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Long Covid, and MS amongst others. When operating optimally, these cells support healthy brain function. However, when they go rogue, they cause inflammation in the brain, contributing to cell death and devastating neurological conditions.

Current drug treatments mostly mask symptoms rather than cure and the statistics are grim: worldwide, 55 million people suffer from Alzheimer's, 10 million people have been diagnosed with Parkinson's, and serious neurological disorders are on a rapid rise.

And the good news? By following the lifestyle protocol that Dr David Perlmutter presents in the book based on supporting microglial cells to work in harmony with the body, people can become 'architects of their cognitive destiny'. The program is accessible to all with practical diet, lifestyle and exercise advice, Brain Defenders will help us start to win the war against the scourge of neurodegenerative diseases.©2026 David Perlmutter, M.D. (P)2026 Penguin Random House Audio Brain & Nervous System Physical Illness & Disease

Critic reviews

Brain Defenders is a breakthrough, showing how the metabolism of our microglia, the brain's immune cells, not fate, drives neurodegeneration and offering a science-based, actionable blueprint to shift the brain from decline to repair.
David Perlmutter consistently has his finger on the pulse of the newest and most important brain health research with every new book. Whether by lifestyle or future medicines, there is no doubt that therapeutically regulating our 'brain defenders,' known as microglia, is our best bet for preserving and promoting brain health as we age!
Brain Defenders is an essential and timely work. Dr. Perlmutter masterfully integrates decades of neuroscience, metabolism, and clinical insight to reveal the mechanisms driving cognitive decline, and more importantly, how to defend the brain against them. As someone who studies the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of ketogenic metabolic therapy, I am deeply impressed by how clearly this book communicates the metabolic roots of brain resilience. Brain Defenders offers a powerful roadmap grounded in rigorous science and practical application.
Brain Defenders is a landmark work that puts the power of prevention in your hands. Dr. Perlmutter offers a toolkit of practical steps to reprogram microglia and tackle the root causes of cognitive decline, making this a truly groundbreaking read.
Think your brain is a black box? Think again. In Brain Defenders, Dr David Perlmutter reveals how your brain's own immune cells and metabolism form a shield against neurodegeneration. This book is a must read for anyone seeking a roadmap on how to shore up your brain's resilience against diseases of aging.
Prepare for David to compellingly reframe neurodegenerative diseases not as inevitable genetic fates but as preventable outcomes of metabolic and immune deregulation. His exploration of immunometabolism and practical strategies-from diet to emerging therapies-offers a grounded, evidence-based blueprint for sustaining cognitive vitality across your lifespan. This book is an essential resource for clinicians and informed patients who want to shift from crisis response mode to proactive brain stewardship.
Brain Defenders is a groundbreaking guide to understanding and protecting brain health for life. Dr. David Perlmutter combines cutting-edge research with actionable strategies to empower readers to optimize cognitive function and safeguard mental well-being. From the critical role of microglia and gut microbiome to innovative therapies like hyperbaric oxygen and CRISPR advancements, this book offers a comprehensive approach to defending against neurodegeneration. Packed with science-backed insights, it is an essential read for anyone seeking to enhance mental clarity, longevity, and overall brain wellness.
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