Neuroplasticity is a complex concept that explores how everyone’s brain changes throughout life. The brain is a supercomputer with more than 100 billion neurons and trillions of neural pathways. The brain is a very vascular organ with 400 miles of small blood vessels in the brain. Research using MRIs and other technologies illustrates how modern lifestyles, food products, environmental toxins, and more injure our brains.
Overuse of digital technology affects the structure of our brains. (1) Chemicals we consume through food products and toxins we absorb from our environments all affect our natural biochemistry. These changes influence gene expression and can make us vulnerable to neurodegenerative and other inflammatory conditions such as depression, Alzheimer’s, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, and more. Prevention of inflammatory diseases is ideal, and earlier stages of inflammation can be reversed. Neuroplasticity is the idea that the brain is plastic or modifiable throughout life, and works in both directions.
Not too many years ago, theory held that the brain is a physiologically static organ; that we are born with a fixed intelligence and injury to the brain permanently damages cognitive abilities. We know today that is not the case. Neurogenesis means that we can produce new neurons, and neuroplasticity is the ability to build new neural pathways to rewire our brain. Despite the genetic burden that predisposes a person to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s, these genes may not express themselves with a healthy lifestyle. Diet and exercise stimulate neurogenesis and affect gene expression, with every bite we eat and every step we take. Positive psychology also plays a role. When we reframe situations in a positive light, we retrain our brain to follow healthier, more beneficial emotional patterns and learn to let go of negative ways of thinking. (2) Going full circle, healthy eating and movement enable us to be more optimistic. Let’s live life to the advantage of our brain!
Brain restoration through neuroplasticity and neurogenesis does take an investment of time and a commitment to change, but your brain and cognitive health are worth it! As a trained health coach, I can help you understand and take action on lifestyle recommendations that you discover and are approved by your doctor. Together, we will create a plan that works for you. Creative solutions unique to your desires and abilities make the process of change easier and less stressful. I look forward to working with you to strengthen your cognitive health. Available times are on my calendar.
(1) https://www.alzheimers.net/overuse-of-technology-can-lead-to-digital-dementia/
(2) https://chriskresser.com/how-to-use-positive-psychology-to-improve-your-health/
(3) http://www.drperlmutter.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/BBR-D-16-00930R1-copy.pdf