The Brain Health Bulletin - June Edition
Welcome to the June edition of Holly’s monthly newsletter!
Summer is here—and with it comes a season full of sunshine, connection, and outdoor fun. As we dive into warmer days and more active routines, it's important to keep our brains as energized as our bodies. From memory and mood to focus and creativity, brain health is key to making the most of everything this season has to offer.
As always, we’re sharing valuable information for you to stay mentally strong, sharp, and resilient—so you can fully enjoy all your favorite summer activities. Whether you're joining us for a class, exploring new research, or building brain-friendly habits, every step forward makes a difference.
Have a go-to summer routine that supports your brain? We'd love to hear it!
Did You Know?
Stress is often treated as a normal part of modern life—but mounting evidence shows that chronic stress can take a serious toll on your brain and body. A recent study has found that long-term stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it may significantly increase your risk of stroke.
When you're under continuous pressure, your body stays in a heightened state of alert. Over time, this can cause inflammation, elevate blood pressure, and disrupt key functions in the brain and cardiovascular system. These changes increase the likelihood of experiencing a stroke, especially when combined with other risk factors like poor sleep, inactivity, or unhealthy diet.
The research also shows that people living with financial strain or other long-term social pressures may be more affected, pointing to a larger public health concern.
But the hopeful news is this: stress is manageable. Proactive habits can lower your risk and help protect your long-term brain health.
Quick Tip for Your Brain: Before bed, try a 10-minute “worry dump” in a journal—write down your to-do list, any lingering thoughts, or tomorrow’s reminders. This small ritual can clear mental clutter and signal to your brain that it’s safe to rest.
Taking care of your brain starts with small, consistent choices.
👉 Read the full article here to learn more about the connection between stress and stroke—and what you can do to protect yourself.
How Lifestyle Shapes the Brain:
A Review of Exercise, Diet, and Sleep on Neuroplasticity
A 2022 peer-reviewed article published in Frontiers in Psychology explores how three foundational lifestyle behaviors—physical activity, nutrition, and sleep—directly influence neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt, reorganize, and form new neural connections.
The researchers provide strong evidence that:
Exercise, especially aerobic activity, increases levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a key protein that supports neuron growth and cognitive function.
Dietary patterns rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and polyphenols support brain cell structure and function, while poor diets may impair neuroplasticity.
Sleep plays a vital role in memory consolidation, brain detoxification, and maintaining neuroplasticity throughout the lifespan.
The review emphasizes that these lifestyle factors are not just helpful—they are essential for lifelong cognitive resilience and mental health. Together, they shape the physical and functional architecture of the brain.
Why it matters: This growing body of research reinforces the value of a brain-healthy lifestyle—a core principle of our work at the Brain Health and Wellness Lab.
🎙️ Tune In: Holly Bardutz on The Evan Bray Show!
We’re thrilled to announce that Holly Bardutz recently joined The Evan Bray Show for an engaging conversation about brain health and wellness. During the interview, Holly dives into how our daily habits impact cognitive function, strategies to maintain mental sharpness as we age, and the science behind brain resilience.
Whether you’re curious about the latest research, looking for practical tips to boost your memory and focus, or interested in understanding how lifestyle choices affect your brain’s health over time, this episode offers valuable insights for everyone.
Evan Bray’s show is known for its thoughtful discussions on health, lifestyle, and personal growth, making it the perfect platform for Holly to share her expertise and passion for brain wellness.
👉 Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Holly’s inspiring message and learn actionable steps you can take today to support your brain health.
Recent Research & Recognition
This month, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on one of the standout achievements from our research community. In our featured video, we take you behind the scenes of a remarkable project that exemplifies the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence that defines our institution.
The video highlights the recent work of our talented researchers, whose efforts are pushing boundaries and opening new frontiers in [insert research field or general theme, e.g., “medical imaging,” “data-driven diagnostics,” “clinical research innovation,” etc.]. Through insightful interviews and real-world applications, viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the rigorous scientific process, the impact of interdisciplinary teamwork, and the real-world benefits of this cutting-edge research.
From conceptualization to execution, the project reflects our continued commitment to advancing knowledge and improving outcomes, not only within our own institution but across the broader scientific and medical communities.
🎥 We invite you to watch the full video and get inspired by the passion and expertise of our researchers. Whether you’re a fellow academic, a curious professional, or simply someone who values innovation, this is a glimpse into the work that’s shaping the future.
From Holly and all of us at Community & Company, we hope you’ve enjoyed this month's edition of The Brain Science Bulletin!
If you know someone who would find this newsletter helpful, feel free to share it with them. They can also join our mailing list by signing up at the bottom of our website’s Contact Page.
Thank you for being part of our community—we appreciate you! See you in the next edition.
Warm regards,
Holly Bardutz and the Community & Company Team
“You make your brain, then your brain makes you!”
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns or treatment.
