Scientific research in recent years shows that the development of the human brain does not stop at all with age. In other words, not only children and adolescents have the ability to learn, but also adults, as well as very old people.
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to reorganize its structure in response to external factors. At the same time, we unfortunately observe not only positive but also negative changes, which can lead to the development of depression and exacerbate the negative influence.
Neuroplasticity – what is it?
Neuroplasticity is a fundamental property of the mechanisms of learning and memory, consisting in the ability of the brain to change its structure in response to experience. It occurs as a result of learning new information and sensory stimulation, just like brain damage.
This property is associated with the body’s recovery processes, both at the physical and behavioral levels. In fact, the brain is able to assess the surrounding reality and adapt to it in the most optimal way, forming new habits and behaviors.
Note that for quite a long time, researchers believed that the adult brain remains unchanged after completing its formation in childhood, and the process of writing information into memory does not cause physical changes in the structure of tissues.
How does it work?
When performing a certain action (or even thinking about it), two neurons generate an electrical stimulus between them. The repetition of this stimulus causes morphological (in form) and genetic (in structure) changes, leading to an increase or loss of communication between neurons.
In simple terms, the repetition of an action (or thought) can increase their power – forming neuroplasticity. Moreover, the more often we repeat the process, the more automatic it becomes – and we literally turn into what we think about and what we do.
How to increase neuroplasticity?
Science is actively studying the factors that affect neuroplasticity – and, ultimately, increase the ability of the brain to learn and remember new information. Interestingly, diet and eating habits have a marked effect on these processes.
For example, intermittent fasting increases synaptic adaptation, promotes neuronal growth, improves overall cognitive function, and reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Recall that the popular 16/8 diet is based on the principle of intermittent fasting.
Nutrition for brain function
Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most important substances necessary for the functioning of the brain – a significant part of their total reserves in the body is located in the brain. The body needs them to fight inflammation – as well as to heal microdamages.
In addition, the body needs a number of minerals – primarily calcium and magnesium – to transmit nerve impulses between cells. Chronic malnutrition of these minerals is characterized by both seizures and problems with concentration and sleep, which affects neuroplasticity. At the same time, only 30% of the population receives the norm of magnesium from food.
What are the symptoms of depression?
Depression is characterized not only by psychological but also by physical changes in the body. In particular, it can lead to negative neuroplasticity – that is, to negative changes in the brain associated with the loss of useful skills and the consolidation of harmful ones.
Among other things, research suggests that the development of depression itself can be a symptom of dangerous changes in the function of neuronal plasticity. The reasons for these processes can be both chronic stress and single shock events (for example, the death of a loved one).
At the same time, the development of the parts of the brain responsible for anxiety destroys the parts responsible for calmness and confidence. That is, getting rid of the source of the problem is not enough – it has already left an undesirable trace that will have to be healed (negative neuroplasticity).
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to adapt to positive or negative experiences. Moreover, this ability is not only expressed in increasing the ability to learn but also in fixing bad habits. Plus, there is a link between depression and negative neuroplasticity.