Neuroplasticity Studies Reveal Your Brain’s Amazing Ability to Heal

Science provides evidence that the brain is malleable and changes based upon your lifestyle, environment, and physiology. As once was previously thought, the brain is not static. “There are two types of brain plasticity—functional plasticity (your brain's ability to move functions from a damaged area to undamaged areas) and structural plasticity (its ability to actually change its physical structure as a result of learning).” When one practices a new skill, new neural pathways form and s/he become better at the skill. The brain also undergoes “synaptic pruning,” which is the elimination of pathways that are no longer needed. Neuroplasticity can also work on emotional states, such as anxiety.  Your brain’s plasticity is also influenced by your diet, sleep patterns, emotional states, exercise, and stress levels. Article stresses that you need physical and mental exercise for brain health. Exercise can promote growth of new brain cells, prevent brain deterioration as you age, improve IQ scores, and enlarge your memory center. “According to brain plasticity expert Dr. Michael Merzenich, engaging in challenging new activities throughout your life, staying socially active, and practicing “mindfulness” are other ways to boost your brain function. He also stresses the importance of having a genuine interest in your chosen activities. Just going through the motions is not enough to build these neural pathways—you have to really care about what you’re learning.” The article suggests engaging in wise lifestyle choices such as: exercise (especially high intensity interval training), reducing overall calorie consumption, reducing overall carbohydrate consumption (especially grains and sugars), eating enough fatty consumption to eliminate insulin destruction, and eat enough high-quality omega-3 fats and eliminating damaged omega-6 fats (processed vegetable oils). Vitamin D, gut health, and choline are also important for brain health as is stress reduction. Stress can actually result in a reduction in brain volume which in turn results in emotional and cognitive impairment. The article recommends an Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to help with stress.
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