HEALTH SCIENCE LEXICON
Neurogenesis
What is Neurogenesis?
Neurogenesis is the amazing process where new neurons, or nerve cells, are formed in the brain. While It’s most crucial when the brain is first developing in an embryo, it continues in certain brain regions—like the hippocampus, which is important for memory—even throughout adulthood. This ability to create new brain cells is key for brain health and our capacity to learn.
Neurogenesis is the process by which neural stem cells differentiate to generate new neurons and glia. This process is highly regulated and continues postnatally and throughout the lifespan in specific brain regions, most notably the subgranular zone of the hippocampal dentate gyrus and the subventricular zone. The creation of new neurons in the hippocampus is particularly important for memoryMemory is how your brain stors information for recall, later. It’s your own special filing system where it keeps information you’ve learned and experiences you’ve had. Sometimes you can recall this information easily, and sometimes you might find it hard… Continue to full entry, spatial navigation, and mood regulation. Factors like physical exercise, enriched environment, and certain nutritional compounds are known to stimulate neurogenesis, which is considered a critical component of neural plasticity and cognitive function.
Supplements That Support Neurogenesis
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids – DHADHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is a type of omega-3 fatty acid, which are fats that are important for our health. DHA is vital for brain health and function, as well as eye health. Our bodies can’t produce enough DHA on… Continue to full entry Algae
- Curcumin
- Lion’s Mane
- Resveratrol
- Magnesium (especially Magnesium L-Threonate)
- Bacopa MonnieriBacopa Monnieri is an herb used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, where It’s often called Brahmi. It is commonly taken as a supplement to help with memory and thinking skills. It may work by increasing certain brain chemicals, like… Continue to full entry
- Green Tea Extract
- Uridine Monophosphate
- Vitamin D3
- BDNF-boosting Polyphenols (e.g., Blueberry Anthocyanins)
Top Benefits of Neurogenesis
- Formation of new neurons in the brain
- Crucial for memory and spatial navigation (Hippocampus)
- Supports neural plasticity
- Aids in recovery from brain injury
- Contributes to healthy mood regulation
Evidence-Based Nutritional Research Sources for ‘Neurogenesis’:
- Queensland Brain → What is neurogenesis?
- Nature Reviews → Adult neurogenesis: mechanisms and functional significance
- PubMed → Neurogenesis: molecular and cellular control
- ScienceDirect → Neurogenesis – ScienceDirect Topics
