How are neurogenesis and neuroplasticity related?

Neurogenesis. Although related, neuroplasticity and neurogenesis are two different concepts. Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to form new connections and pathways and change how its circuits are wired; neurogenesis is the even more amazing ability of the brain to grow new neurons (Bergland, 2017).

Is neurogenesis a part of neuroplasticity?

Neurogenesis defined as the generation of new neurons in some parts of brain regions, especially the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus and sub-ventricular zone, can be considered as neuroplasticity. Neurogenesis facilitates the brain’s adaptive response to new stress by integrating new neurons into related areas.

How do you increase neurogenesis?

Aerobic activities such as running, cycling, swimming, and even sex, are effective ways of boosting neurogenesis. The aim is getting the heart pumping for more than 20 minutes at a time, and on a regular basis. In this state levels of several growth hormones are elevated in the brain.

How do neuroplasticity and neurogenesis rewire your brain?

Through neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, it may be possible to carve out a fresh and unworn path for your thoughts to travel upon. One could speculate that this process opens up the possibility to reinvent yourself and move away from the status quo or to overcome past traumatic events that evoke anxiety and stress.

When is neuroplasticity at its highest?

Children’s brains grow at a higher rate throughout the first 18 to 24 years of life than they do as adults. Within this extended time period, there are two periods of even more rapid brain growth; birth to 4 – 6 years and for 4 – 6 years during puberty.

What drugs increase neuroplasticity?

Psychostimulant drugs such as amphetamine and cocaine are prototypic drugs inducing neuroplasticity changes, and they have been extensively studies during the last years.

How does exercise increase neurogenesis?

Exercise influences levels of neurotrophins, proteins that promote the proliferation of neurons and support their function. Physical activity enhances DNA demethylation in the promoter region of the Bdnf gene, increasing the expression of the neurogenesis-boosting signaling factor.

How does neuroplasticity increase with age?

Researchers have identified the following three habits as facilitating neuroplasticity as we age: physical exercise (which increases blood flow to the brain, delivering much-needed oxygen), paying attention, and learning new things.

Does Adderall increase neuroplasticity?

Due to the neuroplasticity of our brains, which essentially means our brains are able to adapt to various changes throughout our lifetime, those who take Adderall become accustomed to higher levels of the neurotransmitters.