Neurogenesis Is Possible! Eat These Food Items To Regrow Brain Cells

Human brain has 86 billion nerve cells and we tend to lose around 85,000 every day. Earlier, the regeneration of these cells also called Neurogenesis was thought to be impossible. However, research showed that it is possible, except in the case of brain atrophy wherein brain tissue shrinks.

Losing neurons means losing critical data, which could lead to memory loss and other issues. While a small number of neurons continue to be produced throughout adulthood by neural stem cells, their ability to do the same reduces as the brain ages. This leads to conditions such as neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease and also reduces recovery capacity from strokes or brain injuries.

A recent study by Stanford Medicine, published in Nature on October 2, sheds light on why neural stem cells become less active with age. The research, led by Dr Anne Brunet, used CRISPR gene-editing technology to analyze genes that might influence the activation of neural stem cells in older brains. The team identified 300 genes with the potential to stimulate these cells but focused on one in particular: the GLUT4 gene, which encodes a glucose transporter protein.

Brunet and her colleagues found that high glucose levels in ageing neural stem cells could be keeping them in a dormant state. This discovery suggests that reducing glucose intake or blocking its transport might help reactivate these cells and promote the formation of new neurons.

Study Was Conducted On Mice

The study’s lead author, Dr. Tyson Ruetz, developed a method to test their findings in live mice. By knocking out GLUT4 in the subventricular zone—a region rich in neural stem cells—Ruetz and his team observed a significant increase in new neurons migrating to the olfactory bulb, a brain region responsible for processing smells. "We saw more than a twofold increase in newborn neurons in older mice. This confirms that neural stem cells can be reactivated, leading to neurogenesis even in ageing brains." Intrestingly, this neurogenesis extends beyond ageing. The research suggests that similar methods could be used to enhance brain repair following injuries such as stroke or traumatic brain damage.

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Here's What You Can Eat For Neurogenesis

Meanwhile, besides restricting glucose, there are food items that support neurogenesis by increasing Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein essential for neuron survival and growth. Here are foods that can help you regrow brain cells and promote brain health.

• Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, thereby can help reduce oxidative stress and support brain function.
• Red grapes contain resveratrol which has neuroprotective properties.
• Green tea is loaded with polyphenols which can enhance cognitive function.
• Coffee contains caffeine and antioxidants that stimulate brain activity.
• Turmeric has a compound called curcumin that supports brain regeneration.
• Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for cognitive function.
• Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that improve brain plasticity and memory.

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