Job Shadow #4

May 12th, 2025 By: Megan McDonough

For my final job shadow, I was able to interview Nurse Practitioner Janet Rich Pittman. She is a Licensed Dementia Administrator and Certified Dementia Practitioner. I was able to discuss with her the impact of nutrition on a personal mental capacity. This conversation served as a vital information source for my Capstone presentation. One thing she said that stuck with me was, "How you eat is how you feel, it is as simple as that!" I think this was perfect for the topic I was wanting to discuss in my Capstone. Janet was able to explain how different nutrients and food groups affect neuron development and how they can all differently impact your body.

One thing I found truly interesting was the 5 white brain damaging foods.  These include, white wheat flour, white rice, white corn, white potato and, white sugar. According to Janet, all of the above damages, stops, or even kills the neurotransmitter communication between your gut brain and your head brain. I found this so interesting because the connection between the gut and the brain was a major discussion point in my capstone!! She also provided me with a multitude of information on minerals, stem cells, and brain development. I learned so much from this interview and am so thankful for all of the opportunities that BioMed has presented to me!