How to Grow New Brain Cells
Influence your neurogenesis!
Until relatively recently it was believed that we were born with all the neurons (brain cells) that we would ever have, that they would diminish in number as we age and would not be regenerated. Happily, this belief has been proven incorrect and we now know that the brain does in fact generate new neurons throughout our life – great news!
The process of generating new neurons (brain cells) is called neurogenesis. This process can be hindered or improved due to factors largely in our control – more good news. This is important in depression and cognitive decline because these adult-born neurons impact our:
- mood & anxiety levels
- learning ability
- memory (and its quality)
Boosting the process of neurogenesis can improve memory formation, mood, and potentially mitigate age-related cognitive decline and the effects of chronic stress.
Factors that will increase neurogenesis:
- Learning & engagement
- Keeping active & regular exercise
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Consuming plenty of:
- Flavonoid rich fruits, vegetables & supplements
- Omega 3 fatty acids
- Intermittent fasting
- Activities to improve stress response
Factors that will decrease neurogenesis:
- Ongoing stress
- Sleep deprivation
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Consuming excess:
- Alcohol
- Sugars
- High saturated fats
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Cancer treatments
- Eating a soft food diet (see the next page)
Neuroscience has established a direct connection between cognitive decline and depressive symptoms with low levels of neurogenesis. Therefore, enhancing neurogenesis is a promising target to improve mood and memory formation.
Two funky facts about the brain
1. Grow more brain cells by eating crunchy food.
Researchers have shown that chewing crunchy foods promotes neurogenesis, benefiting memory and mood. Soft foods that don't require chewing may have the opposite effect on brain cell generation. Another good reason for an apple a day!
2. Your ‘gut feelings’ are real.
There is two-way communication between your gut & your brain. Gut signals related to stress, emotions & instinctive sensations like ‘butterflies in the stomach’ can influence brain functions related to emotions, mood & decision-making. Similarly, stress signals from your brain affect your gut causing digestive issues (ever had a stomach upset before a job interview?!)
At The Vitalogy Project, our mission is to teach people the importance of brain health as a key factor in mental wellbeing. Our Brain Health nutritional supplement is a unique formula, powered by nature & science, formulated with specific flavonoids designed to support & contribute to your vitality, freedom and mental wellbeing.
