The number of neurons in the brain is generally estimated between 86 and 100 billion neurons, they represent the basis of our nervous system. Ever since, we have been informed that over the years, the brain will lose a lot of its neurons, about 10,000 per day! Moreover, they are never renewable. When a poor little neuron dies, it's irreversible. However, science is evolving, and we discover that the brain does not just kill its own neurons!
Dr. Sandrine Thuret is an eminent neurologist who claims that as adults we can develop new neurons. It provides tips on how to stimulate the growth of new neurons and help our brain function better in terms of memory and mood enhancement while preventing age-related decline.
If you are a neuroscientist, this article might seem ridiculous, but the surprising fact is that adults can develop new brain cells, regardless of their age. As noted by researchers at the Pasteur Institute in 2005, "the discovery that the adult mammalian brain creates new neurons from a stock of stem cells is an advance in neuroscience."
It was long believed that the human brain was "fixed", which means that once the brain cells are exhausted or lost, they can not be rebuilt. But, this proved to be wrong. Neurogenesis is the process of developing new brain cells and is very active during prenatal development.
However, the brain has two parts that also develop in adulthood. They are called the sub-ventricular zone (part of the brain located near the lateral ventricles) and the hippocampus (part of the brain that lies in the medial temporal lobe below the surface of the cortex). Although further research may reveal other regions that demonstrate neurogenesis, science has not yet demonstrated development.
The American biologist Joseph Altman is the one to whom the merit comes in the field of neurogenesis, he is at the origin of this discovery. Although his work was initially considered ridiculous, the dominant research began to consider this process as a priority in the 1990s.
In addition to memory and learning, some neuronal effects are found in the regulation of stress and in certain beneficial mechanisms of certain antidepressants.
Now let's take a closer look at how you can improve the neurogenesis of your brain.
Tips on how to improve your neurogenesis
1. Physical Activity
Any type of physical activity, even walking, is directly associated with neurogenesis. It has been scientifically proven that walking for about 45 minutes a day results in new growth of the hippocampus tissue.
Physical activity also offers a wide range of psychological and mental benefits. Multiple studies have shown that effort is extremely beneficial for neurogenesis, even to protect against Alzheimer's disease.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric has been shown to have an effect on neurogenesis, at least in rats. It increases the expression of neuropathic factors, which is essential for various neurological functions.
3. Blueberries
According to one study, the flavonoids contained in blueberries are extremely beneficial. Since the link between increased neurogenesis and good mood is obvious, it is beneficial to eat blueberries regularly. Not only will you enjoy their taste, but you will also benefit from their cognitive effects.
4. Green Tea
Green tea contains a compound called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been associated with the growth of new brain cells. It has been scientifically demonstrated that treatment with EGCG significantly increased the number of Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) cells in adult neuronal progenitor cell cultures and in the grown gyrus of adult mice. This means that drinking green tea, or supplementing with EGCG in isolated form, increases your neuronal growth rate.
Tips:
It should be mentioned that neurogenesis resembles supplementation. By increasing your intake of food supplements that promote neurogenesis, the expected effect will be very low if your diet and lifestyle are mediocre.