Neurophysiologist Louisa Nicola, founder of Neuro Athletics and host of The Neuro Experience podcast, warns that Alzheimer's disease prevalence is projected to triple by 2050. Currently, some 60 million people globally are affected.
In a recent interview, Nicola emphasized that deep sleep is essential for clearing amyloid beta plaques from the brain through the perivascular space into the lymphatic system. These plaques are a hallmark of Alzheimer's, and their accumulation drives neurodegeneration.
Nicola also highlighted the emerging threat of digital content consumption. She described a "brainrot era" where scrolling low-quality content-especially among younger generations-can lead to cognitive decline. She cautioned that excessive use of AI and social media may lead to mild cognitive impairment, altering brain functionality even if it does not change genetic makeup.
On the positive side, she pointed to the rise of neurotechnology, with companies investing heavily in innovations that map brainwaves using EEG. Gamma brainwaves, critical for cognitive function, are often the first to deteriorate in neurodegenerative diseases. Neurotech is expected to be the next big frontier in brain health over the next five years.