How To Build A Better Brain

New research has found that to boost memory and stay sharp, it makes sense to stick to the basics

- Sari Harrar

WENDY SUZUKI WAS a highly respected brain researcher with her own lab and a string of published studies when a high-energy gym class and a quiet cup of tea changed her neurons—and her life.

“I just wanted stronger muscles, but after six months of aerobic exercise, I noticed that difficult mental jobs were easier. I could keep lots of little details in my mind,’ recalls Suzuki, 55, a professor at New York University’s Center for Neural Science. It transformed my research. Exercise and the brain is a major focus of my work now. And I exercise almost every day.”

If Suzuki had looked into her own brain after establishing her new routines, which included daily meditation, she’d have witnessed some amazing things: new brain cells sprouting new connections, new blood vessels feeding more oxygen and fuel to her neurons, and more brain tissue in areas involved with learning, memory and decision making. This renaissance—called neuroplasticity—was once thought to happen only in children’s brains.

But research now shows that the brain can do these tricks at any age. Benefits include improved memory and thinking skills, more creativity and a reduced risk of dementia. Or, as Suzuki enthusiastically says, You can grow a bigger, happier brain.”

Lately, an avalanche of new studies is pointing out exactly how to harness neuroplasticity. Advanced brain-imaging techniques among other lab tools) are allowing researchers to get a peek at how everything from sleep to food to physical activity affects your little grey cells.

One insight worth mentioning right here: Brain plasticity works both ways. About 50 per cent of the things people do every day that affect their brain are toxic,’ notes cognitive neuroscientist Sandra Bond Chapman, chief director of the Center for BrainHealth at the University of Texas at Dallas. They skimp on sleep. They multitask. They aren't active.”