What is BDNF?
Posted by SUNNY RODHEY
Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein produced inside nerve cells. The reason why it is so important to a healthy brain is because it serves as Miracle-Gro for the brain, essentially fertilizing brain cells to keep them functioning and growing, as well as propelling the growth of new neurons. Although neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin are important in helping the brain function by carrying neuron signals, the protein BDNF builds and maintains the brain circuits which allow the signals to travel. BDNF improves the function of neurons, encourages their growth, and strengthens/protects them against premature cell death. It also binds to receptors at the synapses, to improve signal strength between neurons. Essentially, the more BDNF in the brain, the better the brain works.
But what exactly happens when there is a lack of BDNF in the brain? Aging decreases BDNF levels and decreased levels have been associated with impaired learning and a variety of neurological/mental conditions such as Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and OCD.
So how can we naturally increase our BDNF levels? Physical exercise is by far the most effective and fastest way to increase BDNF levels. Exercise is great in relieving stress and symptoms of mental illnesses. This is also why exercise allows the brain to learn so effectively.
What supplements naturally increase our BDNF levels? Magnesium, Ashwagandha and Bacopa are some natural remedies that have been shown to significantly increase BDNF levels. All 3 of these ingredients are found in BrainMEND®.
But what exactly happens when there is a lack of BDNF in the brain? Aging decreases BDNF levels and decreased levels have been associated with impaired learning and a variety of neurological/mental conditions such as Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and OCD.
So how can we naturally increase our BDNF levels? Physical exercise is by far the most effective and fastest way to increase BDNF levels. Exercise is great in relieving stress and symptoms of mental illnesses. This is also why exercise allows the brain to learn so effectively.
What supplements naturally increase our BDNF levels? Magnesium, Ashwagandha and Bacopa are some natural remedies that have been shown to significantly increase BDNF levels. All 3 of these ingredients are found in BrainMEND®.