Have you ever wondered how to improve your memory? You are not alone!
Memory is important for our brain. Many people are interested in how to improve it, especially those who fear losing their mental capacities as they age.
But is it really possible to improve your memory capacities and slow down the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease?
THE Dr. Mark d'Esposito, a neurologist at the University of California in Berkeley, enlightens us on this exciting subject.
Brain plasticity: the key to improving memory
Brain plasticity, or neuroplasticity, is a fundamental concept in neurology. This is the capacity of the brain to change, adapt and evolve throughout life. Contrary to what we used to think, our brain is not frozen after childhood. It continues to change and reshape itself according to our experiences, our learning and our environment.
How does plasticity improve brain health?
According to Dr. d'Esposito, the brain health is optimal when neural networks are well integrated and communicate effectively between them. This connection helps the brain to process information in a flexible way, promoting behaviors oriented towards objectives rather than automatic reactions.
Different types of memory
Memory can be roughly divided into two main categories: working memory (short term) and long -term memory.
Long -term memory
Long -term memory concerns information that we have learned and stored on one long period. For example, these are memories of vacation, of the knowledge acquired at school or events marking of our life. This form of memory is mainly managed by the hippocampus, a brain structure located in the temporal lobe.
Working memory
Working memory, on the other hand, is used for retain temporarily of the information necessary for the realization a stain in progress. For example, when you Memorize A number of phone Time to compose it, you use your working memory. This cognitive function is mainly supported by the frontal lobe of the brain.
Differences between working memory and short -term memory
Although often confused, working memory and short -term memory have some subtle differences. Working memory not only involves temporary information storage, but also their active handling. It is a more dynamic system than simple short -term memory.
Can you really improve your memory?
Memory is an essential cognitive faculty that allows us to store, recover and use information throughout our lives. It plays a crucial role in learning, decision -making and the maintenance of our feeling of identity.
The limits of improving memory
It is important to understand that everyone has different memory capacities. These individual variations do not necessarily constitute deficits, but rather natural differences, as is the case for other cognitive skills. However, this does not mean that you cannot improve your memory performance.
Strategies to boost brain health
Dr. Esposito recommends adopting a global approach to improve brain health. Do not focus only on memory. This includes:
- A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients for the brain
- Quality sleep and sufficient quantity
- Regular physical activity
- Various cognitive stimulation exercises
- Stress management
- Maintaining an active social life
The importance of energy and oxygen for the brain
The brain works thanks to complex networks of neurons, organized around "hubs" or neuralgic centers. These hubs are particularly greedy in energy. So, any strategy to give more energy to the brain will have a good effect on its operation, especially on the important parts.
The impact of the exercise on brain oxygenation
Physical exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve brain oxygenation. Doing the exercise regularly improves the functioning of the important parts of the brain by increasing blood flow and oxygen.
Socialization: a key factor for brain health
Recent studies, including that led by Dr. Claudia Kawas on nonagenarians, have highlighted the crucial importance of socialization for brain health. A rich and active social life seems to be a determining factor in maintaining cognitive functions, even at an advanced age.
Towards a better understanding of brain health
The Brainhealth project of the University of Texas in Dallas wants to create a brain health index. It also aims to identify key factors for mental health. The first results show that cognitive capacities, emotions and social relationships are important to brain health.
The importance of brain health tests
Dr. Esposito highlights the need to develop brain health measurement tools accessible to general practitioners. Currently, the brain is often the only organ that is not examined during a routine health check. Creating a brain health index could help treat memory and reflection problems earlier and more effectively.
Conclusion
Improving memory and the optimization of brain functions are achievable objectives, but which require a global approach to brain health. The brain's plasticity offers us the possibility of strengthening our cognitive capacities throughout life.
By living in a healthy way, staying in contact with others and by exercising our brain regularly, we can improve our memory. The progress of research, like the Brainhealth project, will help us to better understand our brain and take care of it in the future.
Faq
1. ** Q: Does memory inevitably decrease with age? **
A: Although certain cognitive changes are normal with age, a significant decrease in memory is not inevitable. A healthy lifestyle and regular cognitive stimulation can help maintain good memory.
2. ** Q: Are there effective supplements to improve memory? **
A: According to Dr. d'Esposito, it is best to obtain the nutrients necessary for the brain by a balanced diet. Supplements should only be considered under medical supervision, in the event of a proven deficiency.
3. ** Q: How long does it take to see memory improvements after adopting good habits?
** The results of cognitive exercises may vary from person to person. In general, you can observe improvements after a few weeks to a few months of regular practice. It is also important to lead a healthy life to optimize the effects of exercises.
4. ** Q: Are memory games on smartphone effective in improving memory? **
A: Although these games can be stimulating, their effectiveness in improving memory in daily life is not clearly established. It is best to vary cognitive activities and integrate them into real life situations.
5. ** Q: Can meditation help improve memory?
A: Yes, meditation can be beneficial for memory. It helps reduce stress, improve concentration and can promote brain plasticity, which can improve memory.
Quotes: [1] https://www.beingpatient.com/dr-mark-desposito-neurologist-how-to-imemory/mory/
