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How to Grow New Brain Cells with Dr Sandrine Thuret #44

Jan 9, 2019 1h 6m 12 insights
Can adults grow new neurons? Until relatively recently, experts believed the answer was no. But neuroscientist, Sandrine Thuret explains why she believes humans can indeed generate new brain cells, a process called neurogenesis.  She discusses the findings of the fascinating research in this area and gives practical advice on how we can help our brains better perform neurogenesis through our lifestyles- improving mood, increasing memory formation and preventing the decline associated with ageing along the way.  This is an empowering and eye-opening conversation – I hope you enjoy it! Show notes available at drchatterjee.com/sandrine Follow me on instagram.com/drchatterjee/ Follow me on facebook.com/DrChatterjee/ Follow me on twitter.com/drchatterjeeuk
Actionable Insights

1. Manage Chronic Stress

Actively manage and reduce chronic stress, as even mild chronic stress decreases neurogenesis, which can lead to memory decline and symptoms of depression.

2. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Ensure adequate and undisturbed sleep, as even fragmented sleep can drastically reduce neurogenesis by up to 50%, negatively impacting brain function.

3. Engage in Enjoyable Exercise

Regularly engage in physical activity that you genuinely enjoy, as this can increase neurogenesis by up to 30% and improve blood flow to the brain, yielding greater benefits.

4. Adopt Brain-Healthy Diet

Avoid high-fat, high-sugar processed Western diets, which decrease neurogenesis. Instead, follow a Mediterranean-like diet rich in whole foods to promote neurogenesis and cognitive sharpness.

5. Practice Intermittent Fasting

Implement intermittent fasting (e.g., 5:2 diet or a daily 12-hour eating window) or moderate calorie restriction (20-30% less daily) to improve pattern separation and boost longevity hormones, benefiting neurogenesis.

6. Consume Flavonoid-Rich Foods

Incorporating dark-skinned fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and grapes into your diet can increase neurogenesis, improve memory, and enhance brain blood flow due to their high flavonoid content.

7. Ensure Adequate Omega-3s

Consume fatty fish or choose omega-3 supplements specifically containing EPA and DHA, as these forms protect against depression and are crucial for brain health, unlike ALA.

8. Eat Chewy, Unprocessed Foods

Prioritize eating foods that require chewing and mastication over soft or liquid diets, as chewing can stimulate neurogenesis and contribute to brain health.

9. Maintain Good Oral Health

Maintain good oral health, including healthy teeth, throughout life to ensure the continued ability to chew effectively, which is important for stimulating neurogenesis.

10. Engage in Sexual Intercourse

Engage in sexual intercourse, as rodent studies suggest it can increase neurogenesis, potentially contributing to brain health.

11. Consider Athletic Greens Supplement

If unable to get all nutrition from food, consider Athletic Greens as a nutrient-dense supplement for daily nutritional needs, using the special offer at athleticgreens.com/livemore.

12. Access Free Energy Videos

Sign up at drchatterjee.com/energy for a free six-part video series designed to help increase your energy levels.