Avoid neuronal death and prolong brain health
Neurons are nervous system cells that allow the processing and transmission of electrical and chemical signals. They interact between them and form huge networks that allow the coordination of vital functions. Although it is a matter of debate their number and ability to regenerate, the causes that can cause their death are known. What follows are 4 habits that kill neurons.
4 bad habits that kill neurons
Some customs, quite common, have a devastating effect on neurons. Many die in the act and others lose the ability to fulfill their functions. Before addressing the consequences of neuronal death, some situations and habits that damage or kill these important cells are presented here.
Chronic stress
In threatening situations, the organism reacts producing a hormone called cortisol. If this hormone reaches the brain, it can prevent memories formation and damage the hippocampus, which compromises long -term memory. In large quantities, cortisol kills neurons. The so -called serious chronic stress, if it extends over time, can cause permanent neurological damage.
Do not have breakfast
For the brain to fulfill its functions correctly, it needs appropriate and timely food. Demand of this organ much activity without having provided food, can overload neural networks and cause the death of these cells. The first food of the day must include proteins, carbohydrates and other nutrients.
Sleep a little
The insufficient and low quality dream is a ruthless neuron murderer. When the vigil extends too much, neurons of an area of the brain specialized in producing energy die. In addition, lack of sleep contracts the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, which affects the entire neurological function. This effect is especially accentuated, among those over 60 years old.
Drug’s use
Among the habits that kill neurons, drug use is one of the most harmful. These substances not only cause neuronal death, but also affect other functions of the brain and can cause permanent damage if their consumption is prolonged. The most harmful in this regard are cocaine, benzodiazepines such as Xanax, ecstasy, ketamine, methamphetamines, steroids and all inhaling.
Other habits that kill neurons include sedentary lifestyle, exposure to air and water pollution, dehydration, smoking tobacco and drinking excess alcohol.
What happens when neurons die?
The consequences of neuronal death are diverse and depend on the functions of the affected neurons. In general, the skills to process information and to carry out certain actions are reduced. This loss of faculties can affect the senses, body movements and cause degenerative diseases such as Parkinson, Alzheimer’s, Huntington and Dementia.
Like any organ, the brain also needs attention and care so that it can perform its functions appropriately for a longer time. Although genetic features can determine a predisposition to suffer from disorders or diseases, lifestyle plays a central role here. Neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt to environmental conditions, so it is important to follow the following tips to maintain your health.
- Practice regular cardiovascular exercise.
- Avoid stressful situations and unnecessary suffering.
- Take care of food and your body weight. Breakfast well.
- Sleep enough and take care of sleep quality.
- Rest when you have flu or any other disease.
- Avoid smoking, drink excess alcohol and any other unhealthy habit.
- Develop intellectual activities such as reading, learning a language or writing by hand.
- Keep an active social life.
- Avoid pollution in air and water.
Final conclusion
The brain is the organism’s master control. Almost all vital functions depend on their health and good performance. Although there is recent evidence of neurogenesis in adulthood, that is, the generation of new neurons, nothing can repair brain damage. Take care of your lifestyle and you will be taking care of your brain. In this way you will have a full old age in which you will enjoy all your faculties.
Finally, you can know how food affects brain health watching the Dr. Gurutz Linazasoro.
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