Lunch at the Labs

Human Brain Functioning

Some items related to human brain functioning.

• BDNF Basics: 7 Ways to Train Your Brain

  You may lose muscle mass as you age, but you don't have to lose cognitive function.

  One of those mechanisms that's been repeatedly identified as an important component of a healthy brain is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that promotes brain function and encourages the growth of new neurons. It's basically like gas in the engine of the brain. And when you're running on empty, the right kind of exercise can trigger the production of more fuel, or in this case, BDNF.

  1. Voluntary exercise has been shown to elicit a bigger increase in BDNF and other growth factors.
  2. The stationary bike is fine, but it's also safe. You'll use more of your brain and generate more BDNF with an activity that requires some level of risk, like rock climbing or stand-up paddleboarding.
  3. Researchers have found that daily exercise is more effective than less frequent bouts of activity, especially in the beginning of a fitness program.
  4. Studies have proven you can get more bang for your buck when it comes to BDNF and brain health by incorporating intervals into your training.
  5. In a study done by William Greenough at the University of Illinois, rats that practiced complex motor skills produced more BDNF than rats that only performed aerobic exercise on a wheel.
  6. Social interaction can stimulate the brain and is often considered one of the best motivators in maintaining an active lifestyle.
  7. While more studies are needed to confirm a link between the outdoors and BDNF levels, we do know the natural environment has an impact on physical activity and the brain. Sunshine and vitamin D may contribute to higher levels of BDNF

• Continuous improvement: Intertwining mind and body in athletic expertise

  This book sheds light on a phenomenon of continuous improvement by presenting a theory which demonstrates how mindfully attending to the body allows the skilled performer to address the various 'crises' (e.g. injury, attrition of habits induced by ageing) that confront the embodied subject and to respond flexibly in dynamically unfolding competitive environments. It explains how athletes like Roger Federer, Tom Brady, and Serena Williams are capable both of moments of exquisite brilliance and of sustaining such excellence over a prolonged period.

• Why do we crumble under pressure?

  Study links this phenomenon to the brain region that controls movement.

  Experiments in monkeys reveal that 'choking' under pressure is linked to a drop in activity in the neurons that prepare for movement.

• Part of brain network much bigger in people with depression, scientists find

  Now researchers say that in people with depression, a larger part of the brain is involved in the network that controls attention to rewards and threats than in those without depression.