What makes brain cells grow

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Exercises That Increase Neurogenesis What kinds of exercises increase neurogenesis? There are many, and you may already be doing some of them. Running Aerobic exercise, like running, has positive effects on brain function and structure. In particular, it increases hippocampal neurogenesis.

A small study in associated running with the creation of new neurons in the hippocampus. This type of exercise has positive effects on the synapses between neurons in the brain. It increased the overall communication between the cells in this area of the brain.

Another study found that after 28 healthy students engaged in a running program, they reported significant increases in spatial memory performance and feelings of positivity compared to the control group. Then, gradually increase your duration to 60 minutes over several weeks. The first step is to get moving, even if you have to run for a bit and then stop and run again.

Consistency is key to enjoy the long-term effects of neurogenesis. Swimming One study found that regular swimming increases and stimulates neurogenesis. Apart from encouraging neurogenesis, extended aerobic swimming workouts release endorphins, which can work to lower stress and reduce pain.

Swimming also boosts the blood flow to the brain. It can help to improve mood and concentration and increase overall cognitive function. Resistance training is necessary when you want to build muscles, and it can also increase endurance. These two things help when you want to last longer in an exercise. For neurogenesis to be effective, however, you should prolong or sustain the swimming session. Hop in a pool or swim for open water to start feeling the benefits, both physically and mentally.

You can also increase your stamina with plant-based protein such as Sunwarrior Warrior Blend. Meditation and Yoga One of the exercises that increase neurogenesis is a combination of yoga and meditation. If you follow a regular yoga practice or take 10 minutes out of your day to quietly meditate, you know the benefits and feelings of clarity that can come from it.

In an interesting study on humans that followed a three-month yoga retreat, participants showed increases in brain-derived neurotrophic factor BDNF. The body produces BDNF through a gene that stimulates a protein expression.

The factor then becomes essential in the regulation of brain cells, including their growth, maintenance, and maturation. They also experienced reductions in cortisol and some inflammatory markers. Reducing chronic inflammation may help preserve long-term memory. This means after their retreat, the participants grew new neurons.

They also felt less stressed with improved health. Despite aerobic exercise being a big player in neurogenesis, meditation and yoga, a BDNF exercise, can help reduce stress levels and promote neurogenesis as well. Research showed you could change and grow new brain cells at any age.

Meditation can help you build and maintain a bigger brain. Yoga and meditation are excellent mind-body practices. Site search Search. Site search Search Menu. Can you grow new brain cells? Neural stem cells. Credit: Dana Bradford Brains are incredibly adaptive organs. The brain can produce new cells But neuroscientists led by QBI's founding director, Professor Perry Bartlett , discovered stem cells in the hippocampus of the adult brain in the s.

Stimulating the growth of new brain cells As the brain ages, our ability to learn and remember gradually declines. Last updated:. Share this post. Research hits the sweet spot for healthy brains 24 October Emotion processing region produces new adult brain cells 15 August