Friday 1 April 2016

Some Options On How To Better Brain Function

By Patricia Kennedy


The brain controls almost everything that we perceive and do. It is an organ that has been studied over many years but a lot of things still remain obscure. All of us desire to have an optimally functioning brain because we understand that it makes the difference between failure and success. There are a number of things that one can do to better brain function and unleash as much of their potential as possible.

The brain is considered a highly malleable organ just like a piece of clay that can take any shape. It responds to various stimuli in the environment. This important property is also termed neuroplasticity. When we are faced with new life challenges new ways of handling them are achieved through the formation of new pathways so that they can be used in solving similar problems in future.

There are many forms of exercises that have been shown to beneficial in helping the nervous form new pathways and to maintain it at a high alertness level. Similar benefits may be realized when one does what is considered ordinary in a different way. For example, one may choose to teach their less dominant hand to perform tasks such as combing hair, writing and brushing teeth.

Nutrition is an important consideration for any person that hopes to maintain optimal mental function. One of the most important groups of nutrients in this regard are omega 3 fatty acids. The fatty acids are available both in plant and animals. The rich animal sources include sea oil, krill, squid oil, mammalian eyes and brains, eggs and meat. The main plant sources include chia seeds, flax seeds, raspberry and butternuts among others.

Omega 3 fats have a role in the management of a number of mental illnesses. For instance, the fats are often used as add-on treatments for conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar mood disorders among others. The mechanism behind this action is believed to be a reduction in inflammation of nervous tissue mediated by chemicals known as prostaglandins. The fats are also useful in preventing Alzheimer disease, a neuro-degenerative condition.

Another important type of nutrient that plays an important role in mental function is vitamin B12. The vitamin is available in chicken, pork, seafood, eggs and so on. The vitamin is important in the growth and development or neural tissues. Its deficiency is associated with a number of neurological abnormalities. Studies have shown that its inclusion in the diet in sufficient quantities helps to reduce the incidence of brain atrophy and Alzheimer disease.

Physical exercise improves the function of many body systems including the neurological system. During intense physical strain, there is increased demand for oxygen and nutrients. Consequently, the blood flow to the organ is increased. Persons who exercise regularly have been shown to have sharper mental function than those who do not.

Another area of your life that you may need to look at is sleep. Health experts recommend a minimum of 6 hours if sleep in a conducive environment. During sleep, the neurons get a chance to rest and the entire organ resets itself in readiness for the next day. One gets an opportunity to re-look at challenges from a different angle and develops different solutions. Synaptic connections occurring during sleep also aid in new pathway formation.




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