The brain is highly capable of reorganizing and rebuilding itself.

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The human brain contains more than 100 billion nerve cells called neurons. Until

a few years ago, neuroscientists said thousands of brain cells died every day,

year after year, decade after decade, eventually culminating in an enormous,

inevitable loss of good mental function.

Fortunately, this bleak view was misguided.

Recent research shows that few neurons are lost and that, in reality, the brain

is highly capable of reorganizing and rebuilding itself, even into old age.

Although there is some loss, it's far less than once believed and appears to be

confined to certain highly select areas. Those areas essential for memory,

though, largely are spared.

Better yet, the evidence strongly suggests that certain good habits and simple

lifestyle measures can preserve and even boost mental well-being.

The long-held belief that nerve cells cannot regenerate also is inaccurate. In

1998, researchers proved that the adult brain contains cells capable of dividing

and becoming healthy new nerve cells. Instead of dying, these cells seem to

shrink.

Although the shrinkage appears to contribute to the general slowdown of mental

function associated with aging, it does not seem to cause disability. Serious

mental impairment seems to occur only when vast clusters of neurons are

destroyed by a major disorder, such as a stroke or Alzheimer's disease.

It also appears that a reduction in the production of specialized brain

chemicals needed to conduct signals from one nerve cell to another contributes

to age-related memory changes. That may be good news. If the neurons still are

intact and only the specialized brain chemicals are lacking, we might be able to

enhance the speed of mental processing by treating the chemical deficiency.

What these and other recent findings show is that the brain is not hard-wired

but remarkably plastic, even when challenged by stress. For example, in the wake

of a stroke, the brain often can compensate for damage to speech or motor

centers by rerouting nerve signals through new pathways.

There are several ways that we can keep our minds sharp. These activities

include mental stimulation, physical exercise and social connections. These

things are important:

** Education and mental activity. Repeated rehearsal of information and the

developing critical thinking skills promote plasticity, increasing both the

number and the strength of synapses (electrochemical connections between

neurons).

** Physical activity. The brain requires more oxygen than any other organ. It

utilizes about 25 percent of all the oxygen taken in by the lungs, yet it has no

oxygen storage capability. Thus, brain cells need a continuous supply of oxygen.

Regular, vigorous aerobic exercise enhances circulatory health, which, in turn,

promotes adequate oxygen delivery.

** Emotional well-being. Having a strong sense of purpose and meaning is a key

characteristic of people who thrive in their later years. Frequent contact with

family and friends, community activities and satisfaction with one's

accomplishments are important.

** Managing stress. Stress triggers the release of hormones that can block the

production of new brain cells and, over prolonged periods, kill nerve cells.

Stress hormones also can lead to chronic medical conditions capable of

undermining brain health. Regular exercise, yoga, meditation and seeking help

from support groups or a professional counselor can help defuse stress.

** Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake. Excessive alcohol consumption quickly

can destroy large numbers of brain cells, which can lead to confusion, impaired

balance and coordination, sleep disturbances and depression. While a little

caffeine temporarily seems to enhance concentration, too much can cause jitters

and confusion.

** Not smoking.

** Treating chronic physical and mental problems. Certain health problems can

lead to secondary brain function problems. For example, overly aggressive

treatment of diabetes can produce low blood sugar, which starves the brain of

the glucose it needs to function properly. Similarly, untreated heart disease

can reduce the brain's blood supply.

** Limiting television. Watching television is not as stimulating as reading,

conversation, playing word games and working puzzles.

** Getting adequate sleep. As we age, we need fewer hours of sleep per night and

tend to awaken more frequently throughout the night. It is nonetheless crucial

to get enough sleep, generally at least six hours per night.

** Eating right. Although there is no compelling evidence that any foods or

nutrients will enhance normal memory or intelligence, a well-balanced, low-fat

diet is essential for good circulatory health.

Breaking routine also is helpful. Simple tricks such as occasionally brushing

your teeth with the nondominant hand, taking a different route on your errands,

and finding your car keys by touch instead of sight can help sharpen mental

skills.

Periodically review your medication. Memory problems can be a side effect of

many drugs. Furthermore, some drugs that would be fairly harmless when taken

alone may cause problems when combined with other drugs.

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2003 Charlotte Observer. .

 

 

 

 

 

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