Alzheimer's and Dementia

The hippocampus (part of the brain) is known to play a key role in memory and learning. It is only in the last decade that researchers have shown that neurons are born in the hippocampus in the human brain throughout life. The brain has billions of neurons, but it has no pain receptors. The ache from a headache comes from other nerves. Neurons are specialized to transmit information throughout the body. Neurons are cells that send messages all over your body to allow you to do everything like breathing, talking, eating, walking, and thinking. Whereas a nerve transmits impulses of sensation to the brain or spinal cord, and impulses from these to the muscles and organs. Nerve cells can regenerate and grow back at a rate of about an inch a month. Recent evidence suggests that brain cells are capable of regrowing and restoring lost function. Neurogenesis (growing new neurons) gradually declines with age, but the process does not stop even into older age, such as 97 years.

Factors that encourage neurogenesis are: 1) learning new skills and keeping yourself busy 2) exercising regularly 3) intermittent fasting 4) leading a good family life 5) calorie restriction 6) caffeine 7) resveratrol (found in red wine) 8) curcumin (found in turmeric).

What damages brain cells: 1) smoking 2) skipping breakfast 3) stress 4) junk foods 5) alcohol 6) lack of sleep 7) lack of stimulation.

There are some natural ways to increase neurogenesis such as: 1) intermittent fasting between meals along with a calorie restricted diet, 20-30% less than average intake, 2) regular exercise, 3) regular intake of flavonoid compounds that are found in blueberries and dark chocolate, 4) regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids that are found in fatty fish such as salmon, 5) avoiding processed foods, fried foods, sugary foods, high sodium foods, and alcohol, 6) avoiding obesity and remaining physically active, 7) managing your blood pressure, 8) trying your best to slow down aging.