The last couple of years have been exciting in the world of brain enhancement. People have discovered that there are a several things that they can do to enhance the capabilities of their brain. With that realization, the market has been flooded with different modes and mechanisms to harness brain power. As much as this is a good thing, you need proper understanding on the most effective ways to do this. But before we get there, let us first understand what neuroenhancement means.
What is Neuroenhancement?
Brain enhancement refers to the different targeted methods used to enhance cognitive and affective abilities. It includes both pharmacological (using drugs) and non-pharmacological approaches. The aim of both approaches is to expand the brains abilities to perform its functions. As much as some methods are all hype, science has established the effectiveness of several methods. And indeed, many people have reported marked improvements in their brain power after using the below listed methods.
Pharmacological methods
This involves the use of medication to harness brain power. Nootropic drugs have shown great potential in improving cognitive performance. Good examples of nootropic drugs include: phenotropil, vinpocetine and modafinil. These drugs aid in memory, recovery from injuries like stroke and help in reducing age related mental decline. Unfortunately, you need to be on the lookout for side effects that may be associated with these smart drugs.
Non pharmacological methods
1. Frequent Exercise
When you exercise, your brain increases the production of brain-derived neutrophic factor (BNDF) which causes the release of energy to the brain cells. This in turn causes the brain cells to multiply and increase their interconnections. BNDF also triggers the release of chemical compounds that promote neural protection and neural development. It does this by increasing blood flow to the brain as well as the supply of oxygen and nutrients. There is also a decrease in the risk for stroke giving the neurons a better chance at survival. A study conducted on primates in 2010 showed that exercise enhanced the monkeys’ abilities to master new tasks. The same may also apply for human beings. Mitochondrial functioning is critical for brain enhancement and exercise provides the energy for this.
2. Dietary changes
There are foods that enhance brain power; they are referred to as brain foods and include:
Omega-3 Fats from animals
DHA is an omega 3 fat that is critical for the development and proper functioning of the brain. The brain is largely made up of fats of which a good percentage is DHA. In the brain DHA provides structural support. When DHA is insufficient in your brain, your brain cells may become rigid and easily inflamed. Rich sources of DHA include sea fish, eggs, and algae.
A couple of studies have sought to investigate the relationship between DHA and brain enhancement, one study concluded that DHA supplementation resulted in an increase in verbal fluency in elderly patients. Another study showed that DHA can potentially reverse the symptoms of degenerative disease.
Most people do not take foods that are rich on omega 3. It is therefore advisable to take supplements with DHA from time to time to make sure that your brain and neuronal health is always in top shape.
Vitamin B12
Vit B12 or cobalamin is involved in the metabolism of every human cell, including neurons. A study concluded that people with less cobalamin markers in their brain had relatively smaller brains than those with optimum levels. Reduced B12 levels have been associated with symptoms such as: memory loss, brain fogginess and short concentration span. Vit B12 has also shown effectiveness in reducing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Vit B12 is found in foods such as sea food, pork, eggs, milk and other animal proteins. You can also supplement this vitamin should you be a vegetarian or if you consume less animal protein.
3. Music therapy
Most of us consider music to be therapeutic in and of itself. What most of us are unaware of is the fact that “listening to classical music makes you smarter.” Hype as that may sound; science has proof to back this claim up. One study showed that listening to classical music doubled verbal fluency while another study showed that music therapy improved mental focus and cognitive functioning. This could be one of the most convenient brain enhancement strategies out there.
4. Keep on learning
Learning new things stretches your mind in a “visible” way. Your brain cells can form new connections as well as expand to take in the new concepts. Simple activities such as doing a crossword puzzle will have the same effect. Children who spend their time watching TV may eventually have less brain power as compared to children who actively engage their minds in book reading, filling puzzles or engaging in other brain stimulating activities.
Does it work?
Brain enhancement is a reality and scientists are coming up with better ways to harness brain power by the day. Fortunately, most of these neuroenhancement strategies can be tried at ease from the comfort of your home. For most people who have tried them, the results are mostly encouraging.