Episode #105 – How to Prevent Cognitive Decline
In this episode of Ordinary Vegan, Nancy Montuori dives deep into the latest science on preventing cognitive decline, including dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). You’ll learn the top lifestyle changes that can protect your brain — from nutrition and exercise to social connection and lifelong learning.

Nancy also shares exciting news about her new children’s coloring book, How Fruits & Veggies Saved The Day, designed to inspire healthy eating habits in toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary kids.

What you’ll discover in this episode:

• The difference between normal aging, MCI, and dementia

• Foods and nutrients that support brain health

• The dangers of ultra-processed foods for cognition

• How physical activity, mental challenges, and social engagement protect your brain

• Key risk factors you can address now

Stay informed, take action, and start building lifelong brain health today.

📚 Resources & Links:

• How Fruits & Veggies Saved The Day: A bright and colorful coloring book that encourages your little ones to eat fruits and veggies! Available at ordinaryvegan.net & Amazon

• Connect on Instagram, Facebook & TikTok: @ordinaryvegan

• Visit my Amazon Shop. Curated with care. Free of toxins. Made for your well-being.

Welcome to the Ordinary Vegan Podcast! In Episode #104, host Nancy Montuori dives deep into the troubling world of red dye and artificial food colorings—and how they may be impacting your health more than you realize.

From Red Dye #3’s link to cancer and its upcoming phase-out in the U.S., to the behavioral effects of food dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 in children, this episode explores the latest scientific findings and regulatory actions surrounding synthetic color additives in food, drinks, medication, and even pet food.

You’ll learn:

• Why Red Dye #3 is banned in the EU but still in American food
• What artificial dyes are linked to hyperactivity and behavioral issues
• Which everyday products still contain harmful dyes
• How to identify and avoid synthetic dyes on food labels
• The GRAS loophole and why U.S. food safety laws may not be protecting you

Nancy also revisits the ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) test from Episode #103 and its connection to long-term health risks.

Don’t forget to visit OrdinaryVegan.net for today’s show notes, the ACE quiz, plant-based recipes, and a list of safer, dye-free product alternatives.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show. Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Tik Tok.

Please join me on the Plant-based cruise to Alaska from August 31 through September 7, 2025. This holistic holiday at sea is a curated program of plant-based cuisine, fitness and relaxation on the open seas with numerous guest speakers like our friend Dr. Michael Greger.

Mention Ordinary Vegan when you sign up for an onboard credit.

Til next time

Traumatic invalidation cannot only damage your self-worth but also lead to an increased potential for many adult diseases and negatively impact brain development. The good news is there are ways to repair the long-term effects of childhood trauma.

In this episode, Nancy Montuori shares tested and proven ways to exercise and rewire the brain. Additionally, we discuss the ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) study and how the disclosure of ACEs can positively impact and improve a person’s perception of themselves. You can take the ACE test here.

Like this show? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram and tag us so I can thank you personally.