Brain Stride has been created to help you track your brain health using data-driven and research validated tools. We follow the latest research on possible disease interventions and measurement strategies in order to develop brain health tracking tools for the general population. One such approach is to use cognitive tests that not only measure decline […]
Author Archive: Catherine Konold
What is executive function?
Executive function Overview of executive function Executive function can be described as the exertion of free will over more reflexive attentional mechanisms (Posner, 1990). It enables us to make plans and use selective attention. We can also use executive function to manage emotions and modify thought patterns. Many view executive function at it’s core to […]
How are blood tests used to track brain health?
Why use blood tests? Blood tests are a great way to measure biomarkers. Most of the biomarkers associated with dementia are also associated with cardiovascular health and metabolism. We focus on 30 different compounds to measure your body’s function. Blood tests allow the levels of these compounds to be assessed rapidly. Most of the biomarkers […]
Gut flora and brain health
Overview The human microbiome, also known as gut flora, is a hot scientific topic as of late. This post examines recent findings from primary scientific literature to explain how microorganisms can raise or lower our risk of disease. Microorganisms can be bacteria, protists, fungi, or viruses. Since most of them are smaller than the cells […]
What is Mild Cognitive Impairment?
Mild cognitive impairment, or MCI, is used to describe the early stages of memory loss often proceeding or associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This causes cognitive and memory problems that are significant enough to be noticed by the patient. A diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment doesn’t always mean the person will develop Alzheimer’s. The condition can […]
What is vascular dementia?
Overview Vascular dementia affects the brain’s ability to retain and access memories. It is the second most common form of dementia following Alzheimer’s disease. Arteriosclerosis causes vascular dementia by hardening arteries throughout the body – when arteries harden in the brain, it affects the organ’s ability to stay healthy [1]. At the time when Dr. […]