Dear Students,
Last week we sent a survey and wanted to kindly remind you to share your feedback if you haven’t done so yet. Your input is very important to us and will help us improve.
To Take survey Click here
Thank you for your time and participation!
This Week: Navigating Grief: Harnessing Brain Resilience While Coping with Loss
This week, we will explore how grief affects the brain, particularly its impact on emotional regulation, memory, and decision-making. We’ll examine the neurological changes that occur during mourning and how prolonged grief can influence cognitive function. Practical strategies for managing grief include seeking professional support, joining support groups, practicing mindfulness, staying physically active, and giving yourself time to heal.
Last Week: Repurposing GLP-1 Inhibitors for Weight Loss and Cognition
Last week, we noted that GLP-1 medications, originally developed to manage diabetes and obesity, had shown promising effects on brain health. By regulating blood sugar, controlling appetite, and supporting weight loss, these drugs improved overall metabolic health, which was closely linked to cognitive function. Healthier metabolism reduced strain on blood vessels and lowered inflammation, both of which were critical for maintaining a healthy brain. Beyond their metabolic benefits, GLP-1 drugs appeared to have direct protective effects on neurons. They helped reduce oxidative stress, enhanced energy utilization in brain cells, and improved resilience against damage. This combination of metabolic and direct neuronal support may have lowered the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Overall, GLP-1 medications offered more than just blood sugar control—they supported brain health through multiple pathways, including improved vascular function, reduced inflammation, and enhanced neuronal function.
Key Takeaways:
• GLP-1 drugs improved metabolic health, which supported brain function.
• They had direct protective effects on neurons, reducing oxidative stress and enhancing brain resilience.
• These medications may have lowered the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
Topics Zoom Sessions
Monday, 9:30 - 11:30 AM (Erika Peralta, Instructor)
Tuesday, 10-12 PM (Minoo Pakgohar, Instructor)
Wednesday 9:30 - 11:30 AM (Minoo Pakgohar, Instructor)
Wednesday 6:30 – 8: 30 PM (Charisse Winston, Instructor)
Thursday 10 - 12:00 PM (Charisse Winston, Instructor)
Thursday 1:00 - 3:00 PM (Sharon Gregory, Instructor)
Friday 9:30 - 11:30 AM (Erika Peralta, Instructor)
Special topics (separate registration)
Brain Fitness Lab: Cognitive Wellness Through Hands-On Exercises and Living Stories, Monday 10:00 – 12:00 PM (Yael Lorberfeld, Instructor)
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease: Insights and Strategies for Care and Support, Tuesday 1:00 – 3:00 PM (Minoo Pakgohar, instructor)
Diverse Approaches to Brain Health, Tuesday 6:00 - 8:00 PM (Mindy Sloan, Instructor)
Remember, as a Brain Fitness student you are welcome to attend any of the Brain Fitness classes, even more than one a week.
Quick Links (all blue colored & underlined words are live links)
Course website: bfclass.com
BrainHQ site: https://v4.brainhq.com/
Student site with schedule and more: sdcestudent55.com
Site to enroll in classes: myportal.sdccd.edu
Official SDCCE site: sdcce.edu
Enjoy a brain-healthy week! We look forward to seeing you in next week.
Mindy, Yael, Sharon, Erica, Charisse, Desiree & Minoo
Mindy Jo Sloan, Ph.D.
msloan@sdccd.edu
Yael Lorberfeld. MA
Yloberfeld@sdccd.edu
Sharon Gregory
sgregory001@sdccd.edu
Erica Peralta, MS
eperalta@sdccd.edu
Charisse Winston, Ph.D.
Desirree Harguess, DPT
Minoo Pakgohar, Ph.D.
mpakgohar@sdccd.edu