We are lucky to discover an amazing molecule called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor. (BDNF)
BDNF protein is found in the brain(especially Hippocampus) and is not only a protein but also a peptide with many functions, such as regulating the growth of neurons and new synapses.
Moreover, this protein can protect against different types of brain injury, including stroke and brain trauma caused by environmental damage.
Plus, this peptide can help treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, as well as Depression.
In this article, we will explain the Relationships between Depression and anxiety and the approaches that elevate BDNF production.
Depression and anxiety may benefit from BDNF.
Depression and anxiety have become epidemics with no clear explanation. It might be the cause of Cognitive Distortion, Brain Chemical Imbalance, or Chronic Inflammation (Specifically Gut and Brain)
However, some study has found that patients with BNDF deficiency are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.
Another study discovered that depression and suicidal behavior are associated with structural and synaptic plasticity problems, which is not surprising given that BDNF, one of the primary neurotrophic factors, assists in cell survival and synaptic plasticity. And BDNF is usually formed in the brain areas known as the Hippocampus.
When it comes to depression, the size of the hippocampus is important.
The Hippocampus has two functions: short-term memory and spatial navigation, and it regulates emotions by controlling the release of stress-related chemicals such as cortisol and oxytocin.
According to research, those with smaller hippocampal sections are more likely to develop Alzheimer's, depression, and anxiety problems.
In stressful conditions, animals with smaller hippocampal regions produced more cortisol. (also bothered) Axis hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal)
What Can We Do to Increase the Size of Our Hippocampus?
First, we must identify the reason for hippocampal shrinking and remove acts that have an impact on the Hippocampus.
According to one research, those with high cortisol levels as a result of traumatic experiences and an overactive Amygdala (fear center) had hippocampal atrophy. This demonstrated to us that how we manage our stress may directly influence the size of our hippocampus.
Some forms of stress are more harmful than others, such as Chemicals like methylmercury, polychlorinated biphenyls, and ethanol, as well as heavy metals like aluminum, mercury, iron, and fluoride, might be harmful if they were to be obtained.
The glutathione reserve is lowered as a result of these substances and poisons (Master Antioxidant protects Blood-Brain Barrier). The blood-brain barrier can become more permeable when glutathione is depleted, which will eventually be harmful to the hippocampus.
Intake of high-quality antioxidants and sulfur, avoidance of fluoride, and blood donation to check iron levels are some of the measures that may be taken to guard against the damaging effects of heavy metals.
Impacts on Mitochondrial Health and Function The production by the BDNF.
The mitochondria are the primary generators of cellular energy. It results in the production of ATP, a chemical that is responsible for supplying energy to cells, particularly brain cells.
Mitochondria are responsible for the production of a variety of other vital chemicals, including NADH and FADH2. These serve to slow down the aging process and stimulate particular genes that might aid with cell age and lifespan.
Related: Free Alternative For Optimizing Mitochondria, And Longevity – 2023 Guide
Autophagy is a process that is used by cells to eliminate toxic proteins and other cellular elements that they no longer need. Mitochondria are responsible for regulating autophagy. (which also contains potentially hazardous compounds and heavy metals)
If you believe that just the muscles in your body use ATP for energy, you are probably mistaken. The very energy-intensive organs that make up your brain use the vast majority of the energy that is available in your body.
The more mitochondria you have, the better you will be able to make ATP, and eventually, this ATP will be able to feed the Brain Cells, as well as the region around the Hippocampus.
It is common for individuals to have improved cognitive health and BDNF protein synthesis when their mitochondrial functions are of a higher quality. Fasting (which produces ketones), exercise, and particular dietary supplements are some of the things that have been shown to be helpful in this regard.
For this purpose, I would strongly recommend reading some of the articles that I have written for improving mitochondrial health. These articles are evidence-based, thorough, and easy for anybody to put into practice.
