The XX Brain is a deep dive into the female brain and the degradation of our brain health as we age. Did you know that women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and are more likely to suffer from depression, migraines and strokes? The XX Brain highlights how many of these differences between men and women and the variances between the brain as we age are due to one hormone, or lack thereof, estrogen. So what can women do to help us live longer, healthier and happier lives?

Dr Lisa Mosconi is the director of the Women’s Brain initiative and associate director of a leading Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic. In The XX Brain, she discusses recent studies and findings that have changed the way the medical field views women and the female body. She also focuses on research into menopause and the impacts it has on general health, the brain and mind. This includes questionnaires and easy-to-understand guides to the different tests available and the actions one could take. Included are explanations of different medications and treatments used for menopause and its symptoms with insight into the correct food, nutrition supplements, exercise and mindfulness to help keep the ageing brain and body healthy.

The XX Brain is heavy reading, and I did struggle a little, but still it is insightful, and explanatory and provides very important information to women.

Reviewed by Amber Sawyer