Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, or BDNF is a protein that’s crucial for brain and nervous system health. It plays a huge role in how we learn and remember things. Those with higher BDNF levels tend to have a healthier brain and sharper cognitive abilities.
Not so long ago, researchers believed our brains couldn’t create new cells after birth. But it turns out, our brain can actually form new cells all through our life. This discovery is amazing because it suggests our brains have a greater potential for healing and development, even with age.
BDNF is key in creating these new brain cells. It’s responsible for the communication between cells, making them adapt to new information (aka plasticity), and keeping them in tip-top shape. On the flip side, low BDNF is often found in people with brain problems like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
In the lab, scientists noticed that adding BDNF and another growth factor to brain cells made them bigger and even allowed them to send electrical signals. That’s a sign of a healthy, functioning brain.
So what can boost BDNF? Here’s some advice:
Exercising: Getting active isn’t just great for your mood; it could also bump up your BDNF levels. That’s good news for your memory over the long haul.
Catching some sunlight: Besides getting vitamin D, sunlight might bump up your BDNF. People usually have more BDNF in the sunny seasons of spring and summer.
Sleeping well: Solid sleep matters for a lot of health reasons, BDNF included. Skimping on sleep can drag down your BDNF and amp up stress. That combo’s bad for your brain.
Fasting: Not eating for a span of time, like with intermittent fasting, can give your BDNF a lift. It does take discipline though. Fasting, especially in Ramadan, can boost BDNF levels.
Dealing with Stress: Too much stress can reduce BDNF. Managing your stress can keep it at a good level.
Choosing What To Eat: Research indicates that natural substances like those in coffee cherry extract could hike up your BDNF.
To sum up, BDNF is key for a well-working brain. This protein helps make new brain cells and keeps the old ones in good shape, important for memory and learning skills. Although having not enough BDNF can lead to major health problems, luckily we’ve got options to increase our BDNF and help out our brains.
