The Bredesen Protocol | Austin, TX
Preventing, Treating & Reversing Dementia and Alzheimer’s

At Ruthie Harper MD, we offer the Bredesen Protocol, a groundbreaking approach to cognitive health that addresses the root causes of memory loss and dementia. Unlike conventional treatments that simply manage symptoms, the Bredesen Protocol identifies and corrects the multiple factors contributing to cognitive decline, offering genuine hope for those experiencing memory concerns or diagnosed with cognitive impairment, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

The Bredesen Protocol’s comprehensive approach to preventing, treating, arresting, and reversing demetia and Alzheimer’s Disease has shown remarkable results in improving cognitive function and quality of life. The Bredesen Protocol is rooted in the understanding that cognitive decline results from an imbalance of numerous factors including metabolic dysfunction, chronic inflammation, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, toxic exposures, and lifestyle factors. Through extensive testing, we identify which of these contributors are affecting each individual patient, then develop personalized protocols that address their unique situation.

Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner Kayleen Becker is one of very few providers in all of Texas trained and certified in the Bredesen Protocol. Kayleen works closely with each patient to implement and adjust protocols based on their progress, ensuring optimal results. By offering the Bredesen Protocol, our practice provides patients with cutting-edge tools to protect their most precious asset – their mind – allowing them to enjoy mental clarity, independence, and quality of life now and for years to come.

anti-aging Hormone Therapy Doctor Austin

Bredesen Protocol
Austin, TX
Preventing, Treating & Reversing
Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease

At Ruthie Harper MD, we offer the Bredesen Protocol, a groundbreaking approach to cognitive health that addresses the root causes of memory loss and dementia. Unlike conventional treatments that simply manage symptoms, the Bredesen Protocol identifies and corrects the multiple factors contributing to cognitive decline, offering genuine hope for those experiencing memory concerns or diagnosed with cognitive impairment, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

The Bredesen Protocol’s comprehensive approach to preventing, treating, arresting, and reversing demetia and Alzheimer’s Disease has shown remarkable results in improving cognitive function and quality of life. The Bredesen Protocol is rooted in the understanding that cognitive decline results from an imbalance of numerous factors including metabolic dysfunction, chronic inflammation, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, toxic exposures, and lifestyle factors. Through extensive testing, we identify which of these contributors are affecting each individual patient, then develop personalized protocols that address their unique situation.

Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner Kayleen Becker is one of very few providers in all of Texas trained and certified in the Bredesen Protocol. Kayleen works closely with each patient to implement and adjust protocols based on their progress, ensuring optimal results. By offering the Bredesen Protocol, our practice provides patients with cutting-edge tools to protect their most precious asset – their mind – allowing them to enjoy mental clarity, independence, and quality of life now and for years to come.

Bredesen Protocol for Dementia & Alzheimer’s

Bredesen Protocol
Hormone Optimization

Hormones provide critical support for brain structure and function, and optimizing hormone levels contributes to reversing Alzheimer’s disease by promoting neuron survival and growth of new connections.

Estrogen supports memory formation, protects against oxidative stress, promotes neuroplasticity, and reduces amyloid accumulation – while estrogen deficiency accelerates cognitive decline. Progesterone possesses neuroprotective properties and supports myelin formation. Testosterone in both men and women promotes cognitive function and protects against neurodegeneration.

Thyroid hormones regulate brain metabolism and energy production. Even mild thyroid dysfunction impairs cognitive function, and optimizing thyroid hormone levels proves essential for reversing Alzheimer’s disease. Cortisol elevation from chronic stress damages the hippocampus and impairs memory formation. Growth hormone and IGF-1 also support brain health,

The Bredesen Protocol incorporates comprehensive hormone optimization, using bioidentical hormones when appropriate, as part of protocols for preventing, arresting or reversing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Bredesen Protocol
Gut Health

Chronic inflammation damages brain cells and accelerates cognitive decline through multiple mechanisms. Inflammation also impairs the brain’s immune cells called microglia, which normally clear debris and damaged proteins but become destructive when chronically activated. Bredesen Protocol emphasizes reducing inflammation as a critical strategy for preventing, arresting or reversing dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Poor gut health, bacterial imbalances, intestinal permeability, and gut infections trigger inflammatory responses that affect the brain. The gut microbiome also produces neurotransmitters and metabolites that influence cognitive function. Addressing gut health through dietary changes, probiotic therapy, and treatment of infections or dysbiosis reduces inflammation and supports brain health.

Hidden infections including Lyme disease, herpes viruses, and periodontal disease can also contribute to chronic inflammation that damages the brain. The Bredesen Protocol tests for these infections and treats them when present – and also incorporates dietary approaches for reducing inflammation.

We evaluate inflammatory markers and gut health as part of the comprehensive Bredesen Protocol assessment & implement targeted interventions that address identified sources of inflammation.

Bredesen Protocol
Lifestyle Modifications

The Bredesen Protocol emphasizes lifestyle factors with powerful effects on brain health. Regular exercise increases BDNF, improves cerebral blood flow, reduces inflammation, enhances insulin sensitivity, and promotes growth of new brain cells. Recent research shows that physical activity represents one of the most effective interventions for preventing dementia.

Sleep quality also profoundly affects cognitive health, as the brain clears toxic waste products during deep sleep through the glymphatic system. Chronic sleep deprivation allows accumulation of amyloid-beta and tau proteins that characterize Alzheimer’s disease. Cognitive stimulation and learning new skills build cognitive reserve that protects against dementia. Social engagement, stress management practices including meditation, and sense of purpose all contribute to brain health.

Specific supplements support brain function including omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium, and various antioxidants. The exact supplement protocol varies based on individual testing results and identified deficiencies.

Bredesen Protocol
Detoxification

Toxic exposures contribute significantly to Alzheimer’s disease, and reducing toxic burden represents an important component of reversing Alzheimer’s disease. Heavy metals including mercury from dental amalgams and fish, aluminum from cookware and antiperspirants, lead from old paint and plumbing, and other metals accumulate in brain tissue over decades.

Mold toxicity is another contributor to cognitive decline. Certain mycotoxins cross the blood-brain barrier and directly damage neurons while triggering inflammatory responses. Air pollution, pesticides, and industrial chemicals also contribute to neurodegeneration through oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage.

Antioxidants protect the brain from toxic damage and oxidative stress. Glutathione, the master antioxidant, declines with age and can be supported through supplementation with N-acetylcysteine or liposomal glutathione. Other neuroprotective compounds include vitamins C and E, alpha-lipoic acid, and various plant antioxidants.

The Bredesen Protocol | Austin, TX Preventing, Treating & Reversing Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Bredesen Protocol Austin, TX Preventing, Treating & Reversing Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease

Bredesen Protocol for Dementia & Alzheimer’s

Bredesen Protocol Hormone Optimization

Bredesen Protocol Gut Health

Bredesen Protocol Lifestyle Modifications

Bredesen Protocol Detoxification