"Your brain is an incredible network of over 160 billion cells linked by over 100 trillion connections. Each day and each moment, it's being influenced by the choices you make. While no single signal or chemical determines your brain's fate, incredible scientific research over the last few decades have revealed that a certain molecule produced by your body's cells may be uniquely capable of growing your brain and even growing new brain cells."
"In 1982, Professor Yves-Alain Barde and his team of researchers isolated a new protein from animal tissue. This molecule, which would come to be known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was found to be a neurotrophin, or a growth factor that influenced the development and survival of neurons. BDNF was subsequently found to be central to the growth, development and even creation of new brain cells, especially in the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus (the memory center of our brains)."
"In the years to come, it was discovered that BDNF levels and signaling was significantly related to all manner of brain diseases. Researchers in particular have highlighted these findings in Alzheimer's dementia, but additional work supports a role in Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke and mental health diagnoses ranging from major depressive disorder to bipolar and schizophrenia. While the literature isn't settled, many studies have shown that lower levels of BDNF production and signaling may constitute a risk factor for worse brain and mental health."
BDNF is a neurotrophin that promotes neuron development, survival, and the creation of new brain cells, especially in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. Lower BDNF levels and impaired signaling are associated with increased risk and worse outcomes in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and several psychiatric disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Physical exercise — particularly resistance training — raises BDNF levels. Diets rich in polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids support BDNF production. Stress reduction through mindfulness enhances BDNF-related brain health. BDNF was isolated in 1982.
Read at Psychology Today
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