Sandrine Thuret, a well-known neuroscientist, claims that everyone can grow new brain cells. She provides researches and advice on how to enhance neurogenesis, improve your mood, enhance memory information, and reduce decline associated with age.
Opposed to the common belief, the human brain can be fixed, which indicates that loss brain cells can re-grow.
WHAT DOES NEUROGENESIS MEAN?
The brain is composed of numerous brain regions. Neurogenesis is the process of forming new brain cells. It usually happens after pre-natal development. Only in two regions of the brain, neurogenesis is thought to go on into adulthood. In addition, these two regions are known as sub ventricular and the hippocampus.
In 1962 – 1963, Joseph Altman found out something extraordinary. In fact, how work was under constant observation. In 1990s, neurogenesis was regarded as a priority. In addition, learning and memory may be important brain functions, which may be enhanced by growing up new brain cells.
What is more important is the fact that some neuronal effects were present in the regulation of stress and in the beneficial mechanisms of some antidepressants. So, the process of growing new brain cells which may show advance in treating depression and Alzheimer’s.
HOW TO GROW NEW BRAIN CELLS?
Here is how to grow new brain cells:
These methods are cheap and do not need surgery. You can use them to improve cognitive potential and enhance neurogenesis.
1. Do regular exercise
Increased neurogenesis is related to walking. According to a recent study, walking for 45 minutes a day may lead to increased growth of the hippocampus tissues.
In addition, other studies have shown that doing exercise is also beneficial for neurogenesis. Moreover, doing exercise may lower the risk of experiencing Alzheimer’s.
2. Eat more blueberries
It is essential to eat more blueberries as their consumption improves the mood, neurogenesis and cognitive ability.
Blueberries are rich in flavonoids that make them a great food. While supporting neurogenesis, you should regulate your sugar levels. This is another reason why blueberries are healthy, as they do not contain high amounts of sugar.
3. Avoid consuming food rich in calories and practice fasting
Avoiding the consumption of calorie-rich foods and practicing fasting contribute to survival of brain cells. In fact, you can eat turmeric, avoid calories and practice fasting.
4. Use curcumin in your diet
Using curcumin will help you to enhance the growth of the brain cells. In addition, curcumin is an active compound found in Indian spice turmeric. Numerous animal studies have shown its connection to neurogenesis. Moreover, other studies have shown that curcumin can decrease brain-derived neurotrophic expression factor, which is essential for numerous brain functions.
5. Take omega-3 fatty acids or consume wild-caught fish
Dososahexaenoic acid (DHA) is the most effective type of omega-3 fats in enhancing neurogenesis. According to the studies, it can help to enhance neurogenesis. So, consume wild-caught fish or take omega-3 fatty acids to support neurogenesis.
6. Drink green tea
Drinking green tea is thought to support neurogenesis. In fact, epigallocatechin (EGCG) compound, which is found in the green tea, enhances the growth of new brain cells. According to the studies, this compound has positive effects on neurogenesis in mice. Therefore, drinking green tea or taking EGCG as a supplement can increase the growth of new brain cells.
If we compare human to animal studies, we will conclude that the data is relevant. It means that you can take dose-relevant amounts. Moreover, EGCG extract or green tea is thought to have positive effects on neurogenesis.
7. Eat dark chocolate
Eating dark chocolate is thought to increase longevity. In addition, it is also beneficial for supporting neurogenesis, or growing new brain cells, due to its high amounts of flavonoids.
SIDE EFFECTS OF NEUROGENESIS
Even though neurogenesis have positive effect on your overall health, it is really significant to realize its side effects, too. According to the experts, increased neurogenesis may lead to negative effects as well as decreased neurogenesis.
However, some new neurons born during neurogenesis might die in 14 days. In addition, some new neurons may be transported to the molecular layer.
To sum up, it is really important to include supplements and food that improves neurogenesis in your diet.
Moreover, a bad diet and poor nutrition will not provide the wanted benefits.