Head Strong Book Summary - Head Strong Book explained in key points
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Head Strong summary

The Bulletproof Plan to Boost Brainpower, Increase Focus, and Maximize Performance – in Just Two Weeks

4.3 (182 ratings)
18 mins

Brief summary

Head Strong by Dave Asprey is a groundbreaking guide that reveals how to optimize the brain's performance, prevent brain aging, and combat neurological disorders. It provides practical and efficient ways to improve focus, energy, and cognitive abilities through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

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    Head Strong
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    Key idea 1 of 6

    Healthy mitochondria are the key to a sharp and efficient brain.

    In today’s increasingly dynamic and competitive world, it can be hard to get an edge. Most of us work extremely hard, pouring our blood, sweat, and tears into our endeavors. But that’s not enough. In order to stand out from the crowd, we need to do more than just persevere – we also need to be able to think smart.

    That, of course, is easier said than done. Having the mental energy, alertness, and agility to cope with life’s challenges can often be a tall order. So are we simply stuck with the mental hardware nature has given us?

    Well, the short answer is no – there’s actually a lot we can do to make life easier for our brains!

    The key message here is: Healthy mitochondria are the key to a sharp and efficient brain.

    Of all the organs, your brain makes the greatest drain on your body’s energy reserves. Using up to 20 percent of your energy resources at any one time, it requires more fuel than your lungs, heart, or even your legs.

    So what powers this energy-hungry system? Well, tiny cellular structures called mitochondria, which exist inside every cell in your body, play a pivotal role in getting your brain the energy it needs.

    In fact, the health of your mitochondria directly dictates the brainpower you have at your disposal right now. That’s because your brain’s prefrontal cortex, responsible for advanced cognitive function, has the greatest concentration of mitochondria anywhere in the body – except for the ovaries.

    Mitochondria produce energy by breaking down a substance called adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. This reaction provides us with the fuel our bodies and brains require – meaning that healthy mitochondria make for sharper, more energetic minds.

    Too often, though, we overtax our mitochondria, making our minds sluggish and dull. This isn’t done deliberately, of course – who wants a drowsy mind? Instead, we unwittingly exhaust our mitochondria by exposing ourselves to environmental toxins.

    When we do this, our bodies need extra energy to get rid of the toxic food, light, or air we’ve encountered. And with all our energy going to detoxification, we end up with little left when we actually need to perform.

    The results? Fatigue, brain fog, and a lack of focus. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry! The following blinks lay out some accessible advice for avoiding harmful toxins and keeping your brain healthy and well-fueled.

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    What is Head Strong about?

    What’s it about?

    Head Strong (2017) is a cutting-edge guide to strengthening and fine-tuning your cognitive powers. From what toxic foods to avoid to the importance of healthy lighting, it leaves no stone unturned in its advice on reaching optimal mental performance.

    Head Strong Review

    Head Strong (2017) by Dave Asprey offers an eye-opening exploration of how to optimize brain performance and improve overall health. Here's why this book is worth reading:

    • Packed with scientific research and practical tips, it provides readers with actionable strategies to enhance cognitive function and increase energy levels.
    • Combining personal anecdotes and expert interviews, the book offers a relatable and informative perspective on the importance of brain health and its impact on daily life.
    • The book's engaging approach keeps readers hooked, as it dives into fascinating topics like biohacking and neuroplasticity, making it anything but boring.

    Best quote from Head Strong

    You cant make healthy, viable neurons without the right raw materials.

    —Dave Asprey
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    Who should read Head Strong?

    Who’s it for?

    • High-flying businesspeople looking for an edge in the boardroom
    • Health nuts interested in optimizing their brainpower
    • Anyone who struggles with brain fog, procrastination, and lethargy

    About the Author

    About the author

    Dave Asprey is a Silicon Valley investor, writer, and podcast host. A biohacking pioneer, he’s the creator of Bulletproof Coffee and the author of The Bulletproof Diet and Super Human.

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    Head Strong FAQs 

    What is the main message of Head Strong?

    The main message of Head Strong is that optimizing your brain health is crucial for overall well-being.

    How long does it take to read Head Strong?

    The estimated reading time for Head Strong varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Head Strong a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Head Strong is a valuable read for anyone interested in improving their cognitive function. It provides practical strategies for enhancing brain performance.

    Who is the author of Head Strong?

    The author of Head Strong is Dave Asprey.

    What to read after Head Strong?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Head Strong, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Game Changers by Dave Asprey
    • The Science of Living by Stuart Farrimond
    • Grit to Great by Linda Kaplan Thaler & Robin Koval
    • Smarter Not Harder by Dave Asprey
    • The 100-Year Life by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott
    • Unlearn by Humble the Poet
    • The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
    • The Plant Paradox by Steven R. Gundry
    • The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
    • Hyperfocus by Chris Bailey