How to restore neurons in the brain after a stroke?

All neurological diseases - Alzheimer's, Parkinson's or stroke - share one common element. They all lead to a loss of nerve cell population. This results in a gradual loss of the sufferer's ability to function normally. An alternative to treating the symptoms is therapy to stimulate the production of new neurons to replace those already lost.

How are neurons formed?

Neurogenesis, or the formation of new nerve cells, has so far been considered to be a process that occurs only during the embryonic period - between 17 and 20 weeks of gestation. By contrast, during adulthood, neurons only mainly produce connections between each other. Although the subject is still a field of scientific interest, there is a growing body of literature that believes that the production of new nerve cells by adults is possible. At this point, it has been proven that there are two areas in the brain responsible for an active and continuous process of neurogenesis: the dentate curve of the hippocampus and the olfactory bulb. In recent years it has been established, unfortunately for the time being only conjecture, that neurons can also be formed in other areas of the body.

Can neurons rebuild themselves?

Our nerve cells may be able to regenerate themselves, according to a study published in Call Reports. Analysis carried out on fruit flies proved that not only axons (neurites responsible for transmitting impulses from the cell body to subsequent nerves) but also dendrites, i.e. cells responsible for receiving information and transmitting it to the cell body, undergo regeneration.

While it is true that cells that have died as a result of a stroke are no longer able to rebuild themselves, not all hypoxic cells are completely damaged. Many of them are able to start working again at a later stage after suffering a 'shock'. Furthermore, thanks to the neuroplasticity of the brain, some cells are able to take over the duties of those that have died.

How to stimulate neurogenesis?

How to stimulate neuronsif they naturally decrease with age? It is worth ensuring that changes in the structure of the brain are as little as possible for us. There are ways to stimulate the formation of new neurons. In her TED talk, Sandrine Thuret claims that a mature brain can produce up to 700 neurons a day. This is nothing compared to the one billion neurons we have at birth, but at this rate at the age of 50, we can enjoy a whole new set of neurons produced in our adulthood. Learn about the impact of the various factors on the process of neurogenesis.

What to feed the neurons?

A fundamental element in adulthood is diet. Therefore, eating nutrient-diverse meals will benefit our brain. Proven dietary tips include limiting the calorific value of the meals consumed by 20%-30%, occasional fasting and not eating between meals. In addition, it is recommended to introduce flavonoids, which are found in dark chocolate and blueberries, into your menu. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fatty fish and nuts, will also be necessary to stimulate neurogenesis. In contrast, saturated fatty acids and ethanol will slow down this process. Interestingly, some sources recommend drinking red wine, which is rich in resveratrol. It protects the resulting cells from destruction. We, however, recommend simply consuming grapes. Resveratrol is present in their skin. And alcohol will certainly not be the way to a better wellbeing. In addition, it is better to choose chewy and crunchy foods rather than blended pulps with no clear structure - this also has the effect of inhibiting neurogenesis.

Just one visit to the gym per week is enough to eliminate the typical problems of old age

Neurogenesis accelerates during exercise. According to a study conducted on two groups of elderly people aged 65-75 - just strength training once a week is enough to make our body and mind fitter and better able to cope with the responsibilities of everyday life. The group of seniors who did strength training performed significantly better in tests of cognitive control. An additional benefit was an increase in walking speed, which is a factor in the risk of death among the elderly.

Produce nerve cells in bed

Sounds quite pleasant, doesn't it? Sleep is our friend and ally in the fight against neuronal loss. It is during rest that our body regenerates, the intercellular spaces increase and, as a result, the cerebrospinal fluid can 'flush out' everything that has accumulated between tissues during the day.

Use semax peptide

Reconstruction of neurons in the brain can also occur with the help of a synthetic peptide such as semax. It is particularly recommended for post-stroke people who lose a significant number of nerve cells as a result of cerebral ischaemia or who are in poor condition. The substance is known for its neuroprotective properties, which can contribute to the recovery of cognitive and cognitive abilities that are often lost precisely as a result of a stroke. It also improves neuroplasticity, which can lead to faster regeneration of cells, as well as the formation of new connections between them.