The Well Nurtured Brain

By: Dr. Pamela Hutchison ND
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  • Summary

  • Are you ready to take your brain health to the next level? Look no further than The Well Nurtured Brain, the ultimate podcast for all things brain-related! Hosted by Dr. Pamela Hutchison, a Naturopathic Physician with over 20 years of experience in mental and neurological health care, this podcast covers everything from nutrition and exercise to sleep and stress management. You'll discover easy and surprising ways to nourish your brain, and learn evidence-based tools for improving memory, focus, and cognitive performance. But that's not all - Dr. Hutchison and her guests delve into the latest research on mood and neurological disorders, providing valuable insights into prevention, treatment, and management. Whether you want to optimize your brain health, manage a condition, or simply learn more about neuroscience, The Well Nurtured Brain is the podcast for you. Don't miss out - tune in now and start nurturing your brain today! www.thewellnurturedbrain.com
    2023
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Hygiene & Healthy Living Physical Illness & Disease Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
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Episodes
  • Brain Talks: Neuro-acupuncture for Migraine Relief with Jennifer Midlane

    Brain Talks: Neuro-acupuncture for Migraine Relief with Jennifer Midlane
    Mar 4 2025
    In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pamela welcomes Jennifer Midlane, a Neuro-acupuncturist specializing in neurological conditions. Jennifer shares her personal journey of recovery from a brain injury and how it led her to pursue neuroacupuncture—a unique blend of traditional Chinese medicine and modern neurological insights. Together, they explore the fascinating role of acupuncture in migraine treatment, discussing research, including brain imaging studies and a landmark Cochrane review on its effectiveness. They also dive into the challenges of studying acupuncture, its impact on brain function, and how it offers a promising alternative for migraine sufferers, including those seeking drug-free options. About Jennifer: Jennifer, born and raised in Victoria, BC, draws inspiration from her Chinese heritage to promote longevity and wellness through Traditional Chinese Medicine. Her passion for acupuncture and neurological health began after a brain injury from a car accident left her in a medically induced coma for ten days. While many health professionals aided her recovery, acupuncture was key to her full healing. Motivated by her experience, Jennifer specializes in acupuncture for pain and neurological conditions. She graduated from Pacific Rim College in 2016, became licensed with CTCMA, and pursued advanced training in neuro-acupuncture. She holds certifications from the Neuro-Acupuncture Institute (NAI) and the Complete Concussion Management Institute (CCMI), studying under experts like Dr. Jason Hao, Dr. Poney Chiang, and Dr. Joseph Wong. Jennifer integrates modern neuroscience with classical acupuncture to help those with conditions like stroke, MS, neuropathy, and Bell’s Palsy. Inspired by her recovery, family, and nature, she is dedicated to improving lives through neuro-acupuncture Connect with Jennifer: Neuroacupuncture.com Connect with Dr Pam: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com Episode References: Al-Twaijri, W. A., & Shevell, M. I. (2002). Pediatric migraine equivalents: Occurrence and clinical features in practice. Pediatric Neurology, 26(5), 365–368. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0887-8994(01)00416-7 Burnstock, G. (2009). Acupuncture: A novel hypothesis for the involvement of purinergic signalling. Medical Hypotheses, 73(4), 470-472. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2009.05.031 Curatolo, M. (2024). Central sensitization and pain: Pathophysiologic and clinical insights. Current Neuropharmacology, 22(1), 15-22. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X20666221012112725 Evidence Based Acupuncture. (n.d.). Home. https://www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org/ Fried, N. T., Elliott, M. B., & Oshinsky, M. L. (2017). The role of adenosine signaling in headache: A review. Brain Sciences, 7(3), 30. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci7030030 Gelfand, A. A., Goadsby, P. J., & Allen, I. E. (2015). The relationship between migraine and infant colic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cephalalgia, 35(1), 63-72. https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102414534326 Huang, M., Wang, X., Xing, B., Yang, H., Sa, Z., Zhang, D., Yao, W., Yin, N., Xia, Y., & Ding, G. (2018). Critical roles of TRPV2 channels, histamine H1, and adenosine A1 receptors in the initiation of acupoint signals for acupuncture analgesia. Scientific Reports, 8(1), 6523. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-24654-y Jiang, Y., Bai, P., Chen, H., Zhang, X., Tang, X., Chen, H., Hu, Y., Wang, X., Li, X., Li, Y., & Tian, G. (2018). The effect of acupuncture on the quality of life in patients with migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 9, 381098. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01190 Jin, G., Jin, L. L., Jin, B. X., Zheng, J., He, B. J., & Li, S. (2023). Neural control of cerebral blood flow: Scientific basis of scalp acupuncture in treating brain diseases. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 17, 1210537. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2023.1210537 Linde, K., Allais, G., Brinkhaus, B., Fei, Y., Mehring, M., Vertosick, E. A., Vickers, A., & White, A. R. (2016). Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2016(6), CD001218. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub3 Liu, L., Tian, T., Li, X., Wang, Y., Xu, T., Ni, X., Li, X., He, Z., Gao, S., Sun, M., Liang, F., & Zhao, L. (2021). Revealing the neural mechanism underlying the effects of acupuncture on migraine: A systematic review. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 15, 674852. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2021.674852 Liu, S., Luo, S., Yan, T., Ma, W., Wei, X., Chen, Y., Zhan, S., & Wang, B. (2021). Differential modulating effect of acupuncture in patients with ...
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    45 mins
  • Brain Talks: Optimizing Cognitive Performance through Vision with Dr. McCrodan

    Brain Talks: Optimizing Cognitive Performance through Vision with Dr. McCrodan
    Feb 18 2025

    In this eye-opening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pam welcomes Dr. Cameron McCrodan, an optometrist and leading expert in neurovisual performance. Together, they explore how our eyes and brain work in tandem - not just to see clearly, but influencing everything from dizziness and migraines to reading, focus, and mental stamina. Dr. McCrodan explains why traditional eye exams often miss crucial elements of visual function, how modern life places unnatural demands on our vision, and how we can improve cognitive performance and overall well-being through our vision care.

    About Dr. McCrodan: Dr. Cam McCrodan is an optometrist and leading expert in neurovisual performance, known for bringing an engineering mindset to optometry. With a foundation in engineering, Dr. McCrodan takes a systematic and innovative approach to understanding the intricate connection between the eyes and brain. His groundbreaking work focuses on how this system impacts various conditions and symptoms, such as:
    • Concussions and their lingering effects
    • ADHD and dyslexia
    • Migraines and headaches
    • Chronic dizziness and balance problems
    • Cognitive fatigue and reduced focus
    Dr. McCrodan’s approach goes beyond traditional eye care, addressing key visual functions like binocular vision, eye tracking, depth perception, and visual-vestibular integration. By improving these areas, he helps patients reduce cognitive strain and enhance performance in reading, focus, and concentration. As well as cognitive performance and mental stamina, which will enhance every day living and daily tasks. Through his innovative clinic, Opto-mization Optometry, Dr. McCrodan provides tailored treatments that transform lives by treating the root causes of visual dysfunction. His unique blend of technical expertise and patient-centered care offers solutions that optimize both brain and visual performance. Connect with Dr McCrodan: Website: https://optomize.ca/ Instagram: @optomize.vision TedTalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0pljgXZ_GA

    Connect with me:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d
    Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com
    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com


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    42 mins
  • Brain Talks: The Complexities of Chronic Pain with Aaron Jones, MPT

    Brain Talks: The Complexities of Chronic Pain with Aaron Jones, MPT
    Feb 4 2025
    In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain we are joined by Aaron Jones to discuss the intricate world of chronic pain, exploring how it affects every facet of life—from physical limitations to emotional resilience. We take a closer look at the often-overlooked connection between chronic pain and sleep disruptions, shedding light on the challenges of getting restorative rest when pain feels relentless. Our discussion also features a deep dive into Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a complex and often misunderstood condition that adds unique layers to the experience of chronic pain. Aaron is a physiotherapist working in Victoria BC with a special interest in EDS. With insights including personal stories, and practical strategies, this conversation aims to educate, validate, and empower listeners navigating these challenges. Whether you’re living with chronic pain, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the science and lived experience of these conditions, this episode offers a compassionate and insightful perspective. Join us as we unpack the realities, break down the myths, and explore pathways to hope and healing. Connect with Aaron Jones: Aaron earned a Master Degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney, Australia. Prior to that, he graduated with a Bachelor degree in Exercise Science and Rehabilitation from the University of Wollongong, Australia. Aaron has been a registered practicing physiotherapist throughout Australia, in New York City and right here in British Columbia. Aaron is passionate about musculoskeletal physiotherapy with a special focus in chronic pain, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Functional Neurological Disorder. You can find Aaron at Acacia Health in Victoria BC Acacia Health Website Articles written by Aaron Jones Connect with me: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: @the_well_nurtured_brain Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com Resources: Kent, P., Haines, T., O'Sullivan, P., Smith, A., Campbell, A., Schutze, R., Attwell, S., Caneiro, J. P., Laird, R., O'Sullivan, K., McGregor, A., Hartvigsen, J., Lee, D. A., Vickery, A., Hancock, M., & RESTORE trial team (2023). Cognitive functional therapy with or without movement sensor biofeedback versus usual care for chronic, disabling low back pain (RESTORE): a randomised, controlled, three-arm, parallel group, phase 3, clinical trial. Lancet (London, England), 401(10391), 1866–1877. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00441-5 Oslo Chronic Fatigue Consortium, Alme, T. N., Andreasson, A., Asprusten, T. T., Bakken, A. K., Beadsworth, M. B., Boye, B., Brodal, P. A., Brodwall, E. M., Brurberg, K. G., Bugge, I., Chalder, T., Due, R., Eriksen, H. R., Fink, P. K., Flottorp, S. A., Fors, E. A., Jensen, B. F., Fundingsrud, H. P., Garner, P., … Wyller, V. B. B. (2023). Chronic fatigue syndromes: real illnesses that people can recover from. Scandinavian journal of primary health care, 41(4), 372–376. https://doi.org/10.1080/02813432.2023.2235609 Kourbanova, K., Alexandre, C., & Latremoliere, A. (2022). Effect of sleep loss on pain-New conceptual and mechanistic avenues. Frontiers in neuroscience, 16, 1009902. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2022.1009902 https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/ https://www.thelancet.com/series/low-back-pain https://potsfoundation.org.au/dr-andrew-maxwell-keynote-speaker-pots-unmasked-2022/ Dr. Pradeep Chopra: Connecting Dots in EDS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd1K2EL9VjI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4681035/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553027/ https://www.thespidertool.com/ https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/research-update-the-spider-a-multisystemic-symptom-impact-tool-for-people-with-hypermobility-related-disorders-initial-validation-in-adolescents/ 2023 Chronic Pain and Fatigue - Dr. Helen Cohen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NjE_X46hkY https://karger.com/pps/article/90/1/11/294736 https://drricarseneau.ca/videos The Role and Treatment of Autonomic Dysfunction in EDS-Associated Sleep Disorders - Dr. Alan Pocinki https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qwORNmMUks Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating!
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    52 mins

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