How To Become Smarter and Grow New Brain Cells
Updated: Nov 3, 2020
New research shows that the adult brain can grow new neurons or brain cells. (Called adult hippocampal neurogenesis).
Neurogenesis in the hippocampus is important because it is a part of the brain that plays a key role in learning and memory, spatial navigation, and control of emotion.
Stress and trauma are the main factors that decreases neurogenesis in the adult brain. Studies show that the brain is at risk for cognitive decline and degeneration when it does not efficiently produce new neurons.
HOW TO GROW NEW NEURONS ðŸ§
1. Increase Flavonoid consumption: these are a group of compounds found in most fruits and vegetables. (Blueberries and green tea contain high amounts) 2. Exercise: Aerobic exercise increases the number of new neurons in the hippocampus and increases hippocampal volume. 3. Learning new skills: (particularly challenging ones) increases the survival of new neurons in the hippocampus. 4. Sleep: Promotes the Growth of New Neurons 5. Sex: has been shown to stimulate the growth of new neurons and Improve Memory in rat studies. 6. Meditation and mindfulness practice: has been shown to increase the size of the hippocampus. 7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Increase the Connections between Neurons 8. Turmeric (Curcumin): reverses or protects hippocampal neurons from further damage in response to chronic stress. 9. Melatonin: This powerful antioxidant can restore or minimize cellular death in the hippocampus. 10.Microdosed psilocybin: modulates serotonin (5-HT) synaptic concentrations impacting neurogenesis. 11. Intermittent Fasting: stimulates the production of a protein in nerve cells called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF. This protein plays critical roles in learning, memory, and the generation of new brain cells in the hippocampus. 12. Acupuncture: Studies have shown that acupuncture stimulation induces neurogensis. (1)