St John's Wort
St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a flowering shrub in the family Hypericeae native to Europe. Its name stems from the blooming of the fowers on the birthday of the biblical St. John the Baptist. The flowers and leaves contain active ingredients like hyperforin. It can be used in the form of supplement in teas, tablets or preparations that can be applied on the skin. It is often used to treat depression and menopause symptoms.
According to a publication sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health in 2014, it is widely prescribed in Europe for treating cases of depression. Several different doses have been used in treating different types of patients. The toxicity and side effects of hypericum seem to be significantly less than those of standard tricyclic antidepressant medications, and thus hypericum may be more acceptable to patients.
Also, an evidence published by Hypericum Depression Trial Study Group in Journal of the American Medical Association in 2002 shows that St John's wort is effective for depression, though not conclusive.
On the other hand, it is important to note that Hypericum has been associated with some side effects, and should be handled with care. It should not be taken alongside other antidepressants to avoid life threatening effects on the brain. It can hike serotonin levels when combined with some antidepressants.
These gathered evidences tend to confirm that St John's wort supplement heals the brain of depression, if used appropriately. Though, there is a lingering argument by some researchers against the veracity of this claim.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Thursday, December 13, 2018
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
THE BRAIN CHARGER: GINKO BILOBA
Ginko
Ginko biloba, one of the most researched food supplements, is widely used in the USA and China. Medical research results show that ginko improves memory and sharpens the mind by improving blood flow to the brain and removing free radicals that weaken and short-circuit the the neuronal network of the brain.
Evidences of where ginko was used to improve serious brain damage such as Alzheimer's disease abound.
The dose of ginko to be taken depends on the purpose for which it is being taken. For dementia problem, 40mg of ginko extract taken 3 times daily is recommended, whole 120-600mg daily improves cognitive speed.
Ginko heals and or speeds up the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Ginko biloba, one of the most researched food supplements, is widely used in the USA and China. Medical research results show that ginko improves memory and sharpens the mind by improving blood flow to the brain and removing free radicals that weaken and short-circuit the the neuronal network of the brain.
Evidences of where ginko was used to improve serious brain damage such as Alzheimer's disease abound.
The dose of ginko to be taken depends on the purpose for which it is being taken. For dementia problem, 40mg of ginko extract taken 3 times daily is recommended, whole 120-600mg daily improves cognitive speed.
Ginko heals and or speeds up the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
HOW TOMATO CONSUMPTION IMPACTS BRAIN HEALTH AND IQ
Tomatoes
Tomato (lycopersicum esculentum ), a member of the deadly and dreaded nightshade family, was, hitherto, a forbidden fruit in the USA until September 26, 1820, when Colonel Robert Gibbon Johnson, in a public display of courage in his hometown of Salem, shocked a crowd of spectators by consuming a basket-full of tomatoes out of the tomatoes he brought home from an overseas trip, and remained healthy, contrary to the expectation of the spectators that he was going to die in few minutes. That display encouraged the US people to begin to eat tomatoes. And today, tomatoes are the fourth most commonly consumed vegetable.
Interestingly, the advancements in science and technology has led to the discovery of several nutrients in tomatoes. Studies have shown that they are rich in carotenoids including lycopene and beta-carotene, retinol known as vitamin, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which they contain in largest amounts, and tocopherol (vitamin E).
Contrary to the believe of some people that heat may destroy some nutrients in tomatoes during cooking or processing, and, hence, tomatoes are better taken raw, cooking tomatoes with little oil rather facilitates the release of the fat-soluble carotenoids. All the above-mentioned nutrients are powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals that would, otherwise, attack the neurons to cause their untimely destruction.
Moreover, vitamin, the major content of tomatoes is a mood-elevator, as it is implicated in the formation of dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter that helps keep depression away.
The carotenoids, lycopene and beta-carotene up-regulate the genes that code for brain growth and down-regulate the genes that code for inflammation.
You would love to mak tomatoes a part of your recipe always.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Tomato (lycopersicum esculentum ), a member of the deadly and dreaded nightshade family, was, hitherto, a forbidden fruit in the USA until September 26, 1820, when Colonel Robert Gibbon Johnson, in a public display of courage in his hometown of Salem, shocked a crowd of spectators by consuming a basket-full of tomatoes out of the tomatoes he brought home from an overseas trip, and remained healthy, contrary to the expectation of the spectators that he was going to die in few minutes. That display encouraged the US people to begin to eat tomatoes. And today, tomatoes are the fourth most commonly consumed vegetable.
Interestingly, the advancements in science and technology has led to the discovery of several nutrients in tomatoes. Studies have shown that they are rich in carotenoids including lycopene and beta-carotene, retinol known as vitamin, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which they contain in largest amounts, and tocopherol (vitamin E).
Contrary to the believe of some people that heat may destroy some nutrients in tomatoes during cooking or processing, and, hence, tomatoes are better taken raw, cooking tomatoes with little oil rather facilitates the release of the fat-soluble carotenoids. All the above-mentioned nutrients are powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals that would, otherwise, attack the neurons to cause their untimely destruction.
Moreover, vitamin, the major content of tomatoes is a mood-elevator, as it is implicated in the formation of dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter that helps keep depression away.
The carotenoids, lycopene and beta-carotene up-regulate the genes that code for brain growth and down-regulate the genes that code for inflammation.
You would love to mak tomatoes a part of your recipe always.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Monday, December 10, 2018
GIVING THE BRAIN A MORINGA TOUCH
Moringa
Moringa Oleifera, the only member of the genus, moringa, of the family of moringaceae in the Brassicale order of the plant kingdom, now widely cultivated for a variety of purposes in the whole tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world, is a native plant of the sub-Himalayan mountains of northern India.
Recent scientific studies show that moringa is a rich source of several phytonutrients including phenolics and glucosinolates, minerals, tocopherol popularly known as vitamin E, carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, ascorbic acid and folate.
Zinc, one of the major minerals in moringa, increases mental clarity by supporting the connectivity between the right and left cerebral hemispheres of the brain.
Most of the other nutrients contained in moringa such as amino acids are implicated in making neurotransmitters that help in the transmission of impulses (information) from neuron to neuron within the neuronal network of the brain.
The rich content of iron in moringa comes in handy in the formation hemoglobin for carrying rich supplies of oxygen to the brain cells (neurons) for optimum mental acuity.
Most of other nutrients in moringa such as the polyunsaturated fatty acids and the phenolics are antioxidants that help in mopping up the brain-killer oxidants, making moringa an important food for the brain protection.
Why not give your brain a moringa touch today?
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Moringa Oleifera, the only member of the genus, moringa, of the family of moringaceae in the Brassicale order of the plant kingdom, now widely cultivated for a variety of purposes in the whole tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world, is a native plant of the sub-Himalayan mountains of northern India.
Recent scientific studies show that moringa is a rich source of several phytonutrients including phenolics and glucosinolates, minerals, tocopherol popularly known as vitamin E, carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, ascorbic acid and folate.
Zinc, one of the major minerals in moringa, increases mental clarity by supporting the connectivity between the right and left cerebral hemispheres of the brain.
Most of the other nutrients contained in moringa such as amino acids are implicated in making neurotransmitters that help in the transmission of impulses (information) from neuron to neuron within the neuronal network of the brain.
The rich content of iron in moringa comes in handy in the formation hemoglobin for carrying rich supplies of oxygen to the brain cells (neurons) for optimum mental acuity.
Most of other nutrients in moringa such as the polyunsaturated fatty acids and the phenolics are antioxidants that help in mopping up the brain-killer oxidants, making moringa an important food for the brain protection.
Why not give your brain a moringa touch today?
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Saturday, December 8, 2018
THE BRAIN AND PHYTOCHEMICALS IN ORANGES
Orange, also called sweet orange, is a crop of the genus citrus alongside lemons, grapefruit, limes and other hybrids.It belongs to the species citrus sinensis. Many hybrids of orange have sprung up, but the original citrus species is the mandarin orange citrus reticulata.
Orange is a modified kind of berry.
Oranges contain naturally occurring photochemicals known as flavonoids, and are particularly rich in sugars of flavonoid known as flavanones.
Flavonoids improve memory by the activation of signaling pathways in the part of the brain called the hippocampus which is associated with learning and memory. Therefore, orange improves cognitive ability - a very pivotal function of the brain.
One is however, advised to avoid orange juice, considering its high glycemic index, which can cause a surge in blood sugar levels that results in series of repeated and irregular surge and plunge in the brain sugar supply, stemming from a certain feedback mechanism - a situation that temporarily hampers the brain's cognitive ability. This can lead to brain fog with repeated occurrences. But taking orange whole (with the fiber), gives a positive result, as studies show.
Oranges are also loaded with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant and mood elevator that makes your world go round when you take it.
Other petrochemicals in oranges that help the brain include beta-carotene which is an antioxidant that helps in removing free radicals from the brain's intracellular and extracellular environments.
Zinc, also found in oranges, is need to strengthen the connection between the cerebral hemispheres for effective brain functions.
Potassium in oranges is needed in the generation of action potential in the brain.
These photochemicals (phytonutrients) in oranges make them very friendly to the brain as they help in boosting brain health and cognitive performance.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Orange is a modified kind of berry.
Oranges contain naturally occurring photochemicals known as flavonoids, and are particularly rich in sugars of flavonoid known as flavanones.
Flavonoids improve memory by the activation of signaling pathways in the part of the brain called the hippocampus which is associated with learning and memory. Therefore, orange improves cognitive ability - a very pivotal function of the brain.
One is however, advised to avoid orange juice, considering its high glycemic index, which can cause a surge in blood sugar levels that results in series of repeated and irregular surge and plunge in the brain sugar supply, stemming from a certain feedback mechanism - a situation that temporarily hampers the brain's cognitive ability. This can lead to brain fog with repeated occurrences. But taking orange whole (with the fiber), gives a positive result, as studies show.
Oranges are also loaded with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant and mood elevator that makes your world go round when you take it.
Other petrochemicals in oranges that help the brain include beta-carotene which is an antioxidant that helps in removing free radicals from the brain's intracellular and extracellular environments.
Zinc, also found in oranges, is need to strengthen the connection between the cerebral hemispheres for effective brain functions.
Potassium in oranges is needed in the generation of action potential in the brain.
These photochemicals (phytonutrients) in oranges make them very friendly to the brain as they help in boosting brain health and cognitive performance.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Friday, December 7, 2018
LET YOUR BRAIN GO BANANAS
Bananas
Bananas richly contain potassium ions, iron (ii) ions, vitamins B6 and C and some other nutrients.
Potassium is implicated in the generation of impulses in the nervous system. The generation of impulses involves the rapid influx of sodium ion into the cells and a relatively slower simultaneous efflux of potassium ions from inside of the cells to create a potential difference (gradient) that spreads across the entire cell at and above a threshold voltage after stimulation. The lack or deficiency of potassium in one's body lowers the rate of transmission and processing of impulses (information) in the brain - low intelligence quotient.
Vitamin B6 and iron (ii) ion are needed in the formation of oxygen-carrying molecules in the blood for optimum oxygen supply to the brain. The brain needs oxygen the most among other organs of the body, and begins to malfunction in limited oxygen supply - low IQ and other damage.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which helps, alongside other antioxidants, to protect the brain from free radicals damage. And, hence, preventing cases of cancer, amnesia, Alzheimer's and other diseases.
A recommended Daily Required Intake of 10 medum-sized bananas are needed for optimum result.
You can now let your brain go bananas!
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
MILK CONSUMPTION AND THE BRAIN
Milk
A study published by Choi et al in Amierican Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2015 showed that intake of dairy products is associated with increased glutathione levels in the brain. Glutathione is a ketone. And ketones are known for regeneration of the neurons in the brain. Glutathione is particularly known for fighting Reactive Oxidative Stress (ROS) in the brain. ROS destroys the neurons and causes diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinsonism, dementia and so on.
Moreover, milk provides certain essential amino acids, which support the regeneration of of neurons and production of neurotransmitters for the transmission of impulses in the brain.
Milk, undoubtedly, is a source of power, protection, and life to the brain. All these culminate in optimum IQ and brain health.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
WHAT EGG CONSUMPTION DOES TO THE BRAIN
Egg
An accurate measurement of the global egg consumption is currently very difficult to achieve, as many countries do not have records of their annual egg consumption. It is obvious, though, that changing diets in developing countries and other nations has caused the consumption of eggs to go up a notch globally.
Statistics show that the United States lead in consumption of eggs with a decade-long rise to about 263 eggs per person annually in 2014, which later dropped to about 249 per person annually in 2015, owing to the high price of eggs caused by the rebuilding of layer flocks affected by avian influenza.
An extra demand for eggs used in processing in advanced markets like the United States contributes about one-third to their annual egg consumption. Egg consumption pattern in Canada is similar to that of the USA. Brazil consumed about 182 per person in 2014, with a rise to about 208 per person in 2016. Domestic egg consumption witnessed a decade-long rise in Spain and the UK in 2014. France was not left out in this rise in domestic egg consumption.
Eggs contain a lot of choline found in the yolks. Choline is a constituent of the neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which has been associated with learning and memory. Therefore, eggs belong to the group of foods that improve your cognitive ability, which helps you remember the place you first met your partner.
Apart from choline, eggs contain vitamins and minerals that help the brain to function optimally.
Eggs also contain decosahexaenoic acid (DHA) - popularly known as omega-3 fat - the kind of fat that supports brain health.
Though, egg yolks are known to contain cholesterol, eating egg in moderation would be beneficial to the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
An accurate measurement of the global egg consumption is currently very difficult to achieve, as many countries do not have records of their annual egg consumption. It is obvious, though, that changing diets in developing countries and other nations has caused the consumption of eggs to go up a notch globally.
Statistics show that the United States lead in consumption of eggs with a decade-long rise to about 263 eggs per person annually in 2014, which later dropped to about 249 per person annually in 2015, owing to the high price of eggs caused by the rebuilding of layer flocks affected by avian influenza.
An extra demand for eggs used in processing in advanced markets like the United States contributes about one-third to their annual egg consumption. Egg consumption pattern in Canada is similar to that of the USA. Brazil consumed about 182 per person in 2014, with a rise to about 208 per person in 2016. Domestic egg consumption witnessed a decade-long rise in Spain and the UK in 2014. France was not left out in this rise in domestic egg consumption.
Eggs contain a lot of choline found in the yolks. Choline is a constituent of the neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which has been associated with learning and memory. Therefore, eggs belong to the group of foods that improve your cognitive ability, which helps you remember the place you first met your partner.
Apart from choline, eggs contain vitamins and minerals that help the brain to function optimally.
Eggs also contain decosahexaenoic acid (DHA) - popularly known as omega-3 fat - the kind of fat that supports brain health.
Though, egg yolks are known to contain cholesterol, eating egg in moderation would be beneficial to the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Monday, December 3, 2018
WHAT TEA DOES TO THE BRAIN
Tea
There are several substances in tea. The effects of these substances on the brain differ. Caffeine, for instance, stimulates the brain cells (neurons) in the same manner with the catecholamines such as dopamine, quickening the neurons to burn their fuels (glucose and ketones) to release energy fast to enhance reasoning.
Polyphenols such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) are good antioxidants, that protect the brain from the attack of the free radicals.
Theamine, also found in tea, enhances cognitive performance of the brain. It also has calming effect associated with the brain's alpha waves, which is indicative of relaxation without dizziness.
Cumulatively, the substances in tea help the brain perform optimally, and protect the neurons from undue damage.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
There are several substances in tea. The effects of these substances on the brain differ. Caffeine, for instance, stimulates the brain cells (neurons) in the same manner with the catecholamines such as dopamine, quickening the neurons to burn their fuels (glucose and ketones) to release energy fast to enhance reasoning.
Polyphenols such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) are good antioxidants, that protect the brain from the attack of the free radicals.
Theamine, also found in tea, enhances cognitive performance of the brain. It also has calming effect associated with the brain's alpha waves, which is indicative of relaxation without dizziness.
Cumulatively, the substances in tea help the brain perform optimally, and protect the neurons from undue damage.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Saturday, December 1, 2018
HOW FISH CONSUMPTION IMPACTS BRAIN HEALTH AND IQ
Fish
Fish is rated as one of the best foods for the brain, owing to its high content of omega-3 and retinol (vitamin A), which are powerful antioxidants. Omega-3 fatty acid is fatty acid found in the brain as Decosahexaenoic acid ( DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid, which are short-chain fatty acids. This makes fish an important food for all. Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acid.
These antioxidants in fish help in sanitizing the brain by removing the free radicals that destroy the cytoskeletons of the brain cells, keeping the brain younger and longer.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Fish is rated as one of the best foods for the brain, owing to its high content of omega-3 and retinol (vitamin A), which are powerful antioxidants. Omega-3 fatty acid is fatty acid found in the brain as Decosahexaenoic acid ( DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid, which are short-chain fatty acids. This makes fish an important food for all. Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acid.
These antioxidants in fish help in sanitizing the brain by removing the free radicals that destroy the cytoskeletons of the brain cells, keeping the brain younger and longer.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Friday, November 23, 2018
FREE RADICALS AND ANTIOXIDANTS IN THE BRAIN CELLS: AN EXPOSÉ
A needful interaction occurs between two different species of reactive molecules know as free radicals and antioxidants in the blood and body fluid. The free radicals are destructive while the antioxidants are both protective and restorative.
The free radicals such as hydrogen ions are charged molecules released as a result of certain metabolic processes in various cells of the body, most importantly, the brain. These free radicals in the body 'fly' around like unguided missiles seeking to interact with other compatible reactive species to get neutralized. In the absence of antioxidants, the option left for them is the cell walls of the body cells. This kind of reaction is destructive as it collapses the cell walls (cytoskeleton) by reacting with the phospholipid bilayer of the cell walls, causing the untimely ageing of the cells - brain cells are the worst hit. This process is directly linked to some of the very common brain diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, amnesia, stroke and so on.
Antioxidants are substances in the blood and body fluid that have high affinity for the highly charged free radicals, which help in mopping them up very fast by reacting with them to form neutral (harmless) species that can be easily removed from the internal body environment through excretion (eg through urine). By implication antioxidants are antidotes to free radical,and, hence, protect the body cells especially the neurons from damage caused by free radicals, or, even restores a diseased brain to a normal condition - a common achievement in the USA and Israel.
The interaction between antioxidants and free radicals can be demonstrated thus:
Antioxidant + Free radicals = Neutral (harmless) substance
Antioxidants obtained from foods. Therefore, adjusting your diet toward high amounts of antioxidants wouldn't be bad idea.
What gets the body ( particularly the brain) exposed to free radicals?
What are the sure sources of antioxidants?
Check them out in subsequent posts.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med.
Thursday, November 22, 2018
SHARP MEMORY: A TRUE TEST OF CRYSTALLIZED INTELLIGENCE AND BRAIN HEALTH
Brain function has been better understood owing to the recent advancements in technology resulting in the development of some cutting-edge techniques such as Proton Emission Tomography (PET) scanning, functional Magnetic Resonance Imagery (fMRI) and so on, used in studying and understanding more deeply, the activity of a completely actibe human brain. These techniques have been used in studying both simple and complex responses of the brain including learning, emotions, thoughts, memory and so on.
Memory
Memory is the retention and storage of in formation acquired through learning.
Memory could be better explained and understood in real terms physiologically than psychologically. Memory is, therefore, of two forms:
- Explicit memory
- Implicit memory
Explicit (declarative or recognition) memory is the form of memory associated with conciousness or awareness. It is dependent on the hippocampus and other parts of the medial temporal lobes of the brain for its retention. This form of memory is further subsumed under to two categories:
- Memory for events known as episodic memory.
- Memory for, words , rules, language, and so on knowns as semantic memory.
Implicit (non declarative or reflexive) memory is a form of memory which it's retention does not involve processing in the hippocampus. In most instances, this includes skills, habits and conditioned reflex. Explicit memory initially acquired from activities such as learning to type become implicit once the task is thoroughly learnt. Implicit memory is subsumed under:
- Long-term memory
- Short-term memory
Long-term memory stores memories for years, and, sometimes, for life. This form of memory is resistant to any kind of physical or chemical disruptions.
Short-term memory is a form of implicit memory that last seconds to hours during which processing in the hippocampus and elsewhere lays down long-term changes in the strength of connection of the neurons. During this period or process, the traces of this memory may be disrupted by trauma or various drugs or other chemical substances. This form of memory has another special subcategory known as working memory
Working memory is a special form of short-term memory needed by the brain to hold an information or available data for a very short time while waiting for an action on it this form of memory is used mainly in active duty such as driving. It is an important yardstick for measuring intelligence quotient of an individual.
Sharp memory is really a true test of brain health and crystallized intelligence. It could be seriously inhibited be poor diet, poor use of the brain, which could cause disease conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, amnesia, psychosis and so on.
How sharp is your memory?
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Memory could be better explained and understood in real terms physiologically than psychologically. Memory is, therefore, of two forms:
- Explicit memory
- Implicit memory
Explicit (declarative or recognition) memory is the form of memory associated with conciousness or awareness. It is dependent on the hippocampus and other parts of the medial temporal lobes of the brain for its retention. This form of memory is further subsumed under to two categories:
- Memory for events known as episodic memory.
- Memory for, words , rules, language, and so on knowns as semantic memory.
Implicit (non declarative or reflexive) memory is a form of memory which it's retention does not involve processing in the hippocampus. In most instances, this includes skills, habits and conditioned reflex. Explicit memory initially acquired from activities such as learning to type become implicit once the task is thoroughly learnt. Implicit memory is subsumed under:
- Long-term memory
- Short-term memory
Long-term memory stores memories for years, and, sometimes, for life. This form of memory is resistant to any kind of physical or chemical disruptions.
Short-term memory is a form of implicit memory that last seconds to hours during which processing in the hippocampus and elsewhere lays down long-term changes in the strength of connection of the neurons. During this period or process, the traces of this memory may be disrupted by trauma or various drugs or other chemical substances. This form of memory has another special subcategory known as working memory
Working memory is a special form of short-term memory needed by the brain to hold an information or available data for a very short time while waiting for an action on it this form of memory is used mainly in active duty such as driving. It is an important yardstick for measuring intelligence quotient of an individual.
Sharp memory is really a true test of brain health and crystallized intelligence. It could be seriously inhibited be poor diet, poor use of the brain, which could cause disease conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, amnesia, psychosis and so on.
How sharp is your memory?
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Monday, November 19, 2018
LEARNING
Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family - Kofi Annan.
The brain at every point in time is supplied with a lot of information through various channels including:
1. Thoughts coming from the association areas of the brain's neocortex.
2. Special sense organs:
- The eye (vision)
- The ear (hearing)
- The nose (smelling)
- The skin (feeling)
- The tongue (tasting)
Learning
Learning is the is acquisition of the information that makes the alteration of behavior possible. It is one of the highest and most complex functions of the nervous system of humans. The process of learning is always preceded by stimulation, which, most of the time, comes from the external body environment through the five special senses mentioned above.
Psychologically, there are three different levels of learning that occur at the three different levels of the human mind including:
Subconscious learning
This level of learning is involuntary and takes place unknowingly. This, sometimes, depends on what has been fed to the mind from the external environment such as languagTe. This level of learning happens without the effort of the learner.
Concious Learning
This is the level of learning that occur as a result of the effort of the learner at acquiring the knowledge of a particular subject for immediate or future use.
Superconcious Learning
This level of learning is achieved through the extraordinary effort of the learher at learning a particular subject by immersing his whole thought in the subject (transcendental meditation), which, depends on what has already been fed to the concious mind from the external environment through the five special senses and thoughts. This, most of the time, involves the repetition of a phrase as in yoga or some religious spiritual exercises such as catholics saying the rosary.
Physiologically, learning of any kind has a specific area in the brain where it takes place such as language center for learning laguages, speech center for speech, motor area for movement, sensory area for feeling sensations and so on.
There two forms of learning:
- Associative and
- Non associative learning
Associative learning is learning about a single stimulus.
Non associative learning is learning about the connection of one stimulus to another - the Pavlov dog.
Learning is a pivotal process in the life of every human person. It refines behavior and adds value.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
The brain at every point in time is supplied with a lot of information through various channels including:
1. Thoughts coming from the association areas of the brain's neocortex.
2. Special sense organs:
- The eye (vision)
- The ear (hearing)
- The nose (smelling)
- The skin (feeling)
- The tongue (tasting)
Learning
Learning is the is acquisition of the information that makes the alteration of behavior possible. It is one of the highest and most complex functions of the nervous system of humans. The process of learning is always preceded by stimulation, which, most of the time, comes from the external body environment through the five special senses mentioned above.
Psychologically, there are three different levels of learning that occur at the three different levels of the human mind including:
Subconscious learning
This level of learning is involuntary and takes place unknowingly. This, sometimes, depends on what has been fed to the mind from the external environment such as languagTe. This level of learning happens without the effort of the learner.
Concious Learning
This is the level of learning that occur as a result of the effort of the learner at acquiring the knowledge of a particular subject for immediate or future use.
Superconcious Learning
This level of learning is achieved through the extraordinary effort of the learher at learning a particular subject by immersing his whole thought in the subject (transcendental meditation), which, depends on what has already been fed to the concious mind from the external environment through the five special senses and thoughts. This, most of the time, involves the repetition of a phrase as in yoga or some religious spiritual exercises such as catholics saying the rosary.
Physiologically, learning of any kind has a specific area in the brain where it takes place such as language center for learning laguages, speech center for speech, motor area for movement, sensory area for feeling sensations and so on.
There two forms of learning:
- Associative and
- Non associative learning
Associative learning is learning about a single stimulus.
Non associative learning is learning about the connection of one stimulus to another - the Pavlov dog.
Learning is a pivotal process in the life of every human person. It refines behavior and adds value.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Sunday, November 18, 2018
THE FORCE BEHIND LEARNING AND RETENTIVE MEMORY: ACETYLCHOLINE
Acetylcholine
Both learning and memory are facilitated by acetylcholine in the brain. Though, it is the transmitting chemical at the meeting point of the somatic nerve fibers and skeletal muscle fibers, where it mediates muscle contractions, it is also found in the brain, where it serves the very important functions of mediating learning and memory in the cerebral cortex.
The levels of this substance in the brain depends largely on diet. Subsequent posts will reveal the appropriate diet for adequate acetylcholine supply in the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Both learning and memory are facilitated by acetylcholine in the brain. Though, it is the transmitting chemical at the meeting point of the somatic nerve fibers and skeletal muscle fibers, where it mediates muscle contractions, it is also found in the brain, where it serves the very important functions of mediating learning and memory in the cerebral cortex.
The levels of this substance in the brain depends largely on diet. Subsequent posts will reveal the appropriate diet for adequate acetylcholine supply in the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Saturday, November 17, 2018
THE FUEL THAT POWERS YOUR FLUID INTELLIGENCE: NOR-EPINEPHRINE
Nor-epinephrine is associated with thought, mental energy and attention (alertness), which enhance learning. It is known as nor-adrenaline in the UK.
It is popular for its involvement in fright, fight and flight (fff) responses to sudden attacks. Nor-epinephrine helps one to perform extraordinarily in the face of difficulties.
Nor-adrenaline is believed to fuel fluid intelligence.
Both static and dynamic physical exercises drive its copious release in the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med Sci. Physiology
It is popular for its involvement in fright, fight and flight (fff) responses to sudden attacks. Nor-epinephrine helps one to perform extraordinarily in the face of difficulties.
Nor-adrenaline is believed to fuel fluid intelligence.
Both static and dynamic physical exercises drive its copious release in the brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med Sci. Physiology
Thursday, November 15, 2018
THE PAIN ANTIDOTES: ENDORPHINS
Endorphins
There are about 20 different kinds of endorphins found in the brain. They function as both neurotransmitters and hormones. They are needed for endurance and relaxation (Guyton and Hall., 2015), and, hence, needful for long spans of mental and physical work. And to block physical
Classification of Endorphins
Endorphins can be classified as:
- alpha endorphins
- beta endorphins
- gamma endorphins
- delta endorphins
Each of these four classes of endorphins has an average of four members. These members differ in the number and/or type of amino acids that make them up.
Endorphins are produced mainly in the Brain, brain stem, spinal cord and the pituitary gland. Some also believe that it is produced in order parts of the body including the skeletal muscles.
The most powerful endorphins are beta endorphins.
The main difference between endorphins and analgesic drugs is that endorphins are removed very fast from the plasma after release.
There are about five different types of endorphins in each of their four classes (alpha, beta, gamma and delta endorphins) making about 20 different types of endorphins yet discovered. Some like the met-enkephalins and leu-enkephalins differ by types or number of amino acids in their chains (molecules).
Endorphins as Pain Antidotes
Endorphins are antidotes to physical, emotional/psychological pain. They inhibit physical pain by stoping nociceptors from relaying pain signals to the central nervous system when they bind with opoid receptors to produce analgesic effects.
They relief emotional/psychological pain by producing excitatory effects in the neurons of the brains circuits possibly in the Papez circuit of the thalamus.
Sexual Functions of Endorphins
Endorphins have also been found to influence the release of sex hormones by possibly acting on the anterior pituitary gland to release the sex hormone releasing hormone (GnRH), which acts in turn acts on the gonads to cause the release of follicle stimulating hormones (FSH) and leutenizing hormone (LH) for the generation of sex cells and hormones.
Endorphins Release
Studies have long shown that exercise hike the release of endorphins. Laughter, sex and some foods such as chocolate and chilly pepper have also been linked to hike in plasma endorphins levels.
Worthy of note is that the old believe that the euphoric mood after exercise is caused by plasma endorphins hike has been debunked by the discovery of anandamide in the brain after exercise. Anandamide produces a cannabinoid effect (mood elevation) after exercise.
However, one is advised to subscribe to whatever boosts the availability to nervous system of these pain antidotes, endorphins.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
There are about 20 different kinds of endorphins found in the brain. They function as both neurotransmitters and hormones. They are needed for endurance and relaxation (Guyton and Hall., 2015), and, hence, needful for long spans of mental and physical work. And to block physical
Classification of Endorphins
Endorphins can be classified as:
- alpha endorphins
- beta endorphins
- gamma endorphins
- delta endorphins
Each of these four classes of endorphins has an average of four members. These members differ in the number and/or type of amino acids that make them up.
Endorphins are produced mainly in the Brain, brain stem, spinal cord and the pituitary gland. Some also believe that it is produced in order parts of the body including the skeletal muscles.
The most powerful endorphins are beta endorphins.
The main difference between endorphins and analgesic drugs is that endorphins are removed very fast from the plasma after release.
There are about five different types of endorphins in each of their four classes (alpha, beta, gamma and delta endorphins) making about 20 different types of endorphins yet discovered. Some like the met-enkephalins and leu-enkephalins differ by types or number of amino acids in their chains (molecules).
Endorphins as Pain Antidotes
Endorphins are antidotes to physical, emotional/psychological pain. They inhibit physical pain by stoping nociceptors from relaying pain signals to the central nervous system when they bind with opoid receptors to produce analgesic effects.
They relief emotional/psychological pain by producing excitatory effects in the neurons of the brains circuits possibly in the Papez circuit of the thalamus.
Sexual Functions of Endorphins
Endorphins have also been found to influence the release of sex hormones by possibly acting on the anterior pituitary gland to release the sex hormone releasing hormone (GnRH), which acts in turn acts on the gonads to cause the release of follicle stimulating hormones (FSH) and leutenizing hormone (LH) for the generation of sex cells and hormones.
Endorphins Release
Studies have long shown that exercise hike the release of endorphins. Laughter, sex and some foods such as chocolate and chilly pepper have also been linked to hike in plasma endorphins levels.
Worthy of note is that the old believe that the euphoric mood after exercise is caused by plasma endorphins hike has been debunked by the discovery of anandamide in the brain after exercise. Anandamide produces a cannabinoid effect (mood elevation) after exercise.
However, one is advised to subscribe to whatever boosts the availability to nervous system of these pain antidotes, endorphins.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
THE MOOD ELEVATOR: DOPAMINE
Dopamine
The neurochemical, dopamine is produced in the neurons of the brain from a precursor known as L-Dopa. It is a contraction of 3,4 dohydroxyphenethylamine.
Dopamine has been nicknamed feel-good neurotransmitter owing to its mood-elevating effect on human behavior. Its presence in the brain is associated with rewarding mood, feeling arousal for sex, eating, pleasure, and even creative thinking. It is also involved in motor control and release of various hormones (neuromodulation). It is also synthesized in plants and most animals, aside from humans. It is a molecule in the family of catecholamines. It consists of a catechol and benzene ring with two hydroxyl side groups with one of the amine groups attached through an ethyl chain. It is the smallest known catecholamine compared to others such as norepinephrine and epinephrine.
Dopamine is usually released in anticipation of rewards. But its presence in the synaptic gaps is very transient, owing to its immediate inactivation by an enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO), and reuptake into the neurons.
Low levels of dopamine in the brain results in depression, while so much of it leads to dependence on stimulants (or narcotics) such as cocaine. This phenomenon stems from the endocytosis (swallowing) of the dopaminergic receptors by the brain cells (neurons) to balance the effect of the presence of high levels of it (dopamine) in the brain.
The enzyme MAO discovered by Bernheim in 1928 belongs to the family of proteins known as flavin-containing amine oxidoreductase. They are important important in breaking down monoamines ingested in food and inactivating monoamine neurotransmitters in synaptic gaps. Because of the involvement of MAOs in the breakdown (inactivation) of dopamine and other monoamines, they are implicated in a number of psychiatric and neurological diseases, a number of which can be treated with MAO inhibitors (MAOIs) that block the action of MAOs.
Because of the shortness of the time of action of dopamine in the synaptic gaps controlled by an autoregulatory mechanism, some addictive drugs have been designed to, either increase its release or slow down the reuptake from the synaptic gaps after release to prolong the mood elevation normally produced by dopamine. But, regrettably, this leads to the vicious cycle of dependence on drugs as the dopamine receptors on the neurons are swallowed by the neurons to compensate for the high concentrations.
Natural ways of raising dopamine levels in the brain include:
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Going on dopamine-boosting
diets
- Playing some interesting games
and so on.
A brain with adequate dopamine supply is a powerful brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med Sci. Physiology
The neurochemical, dopamine is produced in the neurons of the brain from a precursor known as L-Dopa. It is a contraction of 3,4 dohydroxyphenethylamine.
Dopamine has been nicknamed feel-good neurotransmitter owing to its mood-elevating effect on human behavior. Its presence in the brain is associated with rewarding mood, feeling arousal for sex, eating, pleasure, and even creative thinking. It is also involved in motor control and release of various hormones (neuromodulation). It is also synthesized in plants and most animals, aside from humans. It is a molecule in the family of catecholamines. It consists of a catechol and benzene ring with two hydroxyl side groups with one of the amine groups attached through an ethyl chain. It is the smallest known catecholamine compared to others such as norepinephrine and epinephrine.
Dopamine is usually released in anticipation of rewards. But its presence in the synaptic gaps is very transient, owing to its immediate inactivation by an enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO), and reuptake into the neurons.
Low levels of dopamine in the brain results in depression, while so much of it leads to dependence on stimulants (or narcotics) such as cocaine. This phenomenon stems from the endocytosis (swallowing) of the dopaminergic receptors by the brain cells (neurons) to balance the effect of the presence of high levels of it (dopamine) in the brain.
The enzyme MAO discovered by Bernheim in 1928 belongs to the family of proteins known as flavin-containing amine oxidoreductase. They are important important in breaking down monoamines ingested in food and inactivating monoamine neurotransmitters in synaptic gaps. Because of the involvement of MAOs in the breakdown (inactivation) of dopamine and other monoamines, they are implicated in a number of psychiatric and neurological diseases, a number of which can be treated with MAO inhibitors (MAOIs) that block the action of MAOs.
Because of the shortness of the time of action of dopamine in the synaptic gaps controlled by an autoregulatory mechanism, some addictive drugs have been designed to, either increase its release or slow down the reuptake from the synaptic gaps after release to prolong the mood elevation normally produced by dopamine. But, regrettably, this leads to the vicious cycle of dependence on drugs as the dopamine receptors on the neurons are swallowed by the neurons to compensate for the high concentrations.
Natural ways of raising dopamine levels in the brain include:
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Going on dopamine-boosting
diets
- Playing some interesting games
and so on.
A brain with adequate dopamine supply is a powerful brain.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med Sci. Physiology
Monday, November 12, 2018
THE ANTIDEPRESSANT: SEROTONIN
Serotonin also called 5-hydroxytryptamine is the molecule (neurotransmitter) in the brain that enhances serenity and hopefulness. It is found mainly in the midbrain and hypothalamus. It is formed from the amino acid tryptophan, which is an essential amino acid as it is got only through diets. Low tryptophan is associated to serotonin deficiency. Serotonin is associated with sleep and relaxation. Low levels of it in the brain results in depression.
Aside from newly generated drugs known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) that trigger the release of this substance, the presence of high levels of sugar in the brain triggers the release of tryptophan, which, in turn, elicits its release too.
Meditation trigger serotonin release which may cause sleep and enhance relaxation.
Exposure to sunlight (light therapy) also raises serotonin levels in the body.
Regular exercise also enhances serotonin release in the brain.
Some foods like eggs, avocados, pineapples and so many others boost serotonin levels in the brain.
Normal ranges of serotonin in the blood is 101 - 283 nanograms per millimeter (ng/ ML).
Festus C. Anaba, B Med.
Aside from newly generated drugs known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) that trigger the release of this substance, the presence of high levels of sugar in the brain triggers the release of tryptophan, which, in turn, elicits its release too.
Meditation trigger serotonin release which may cause sleep and enhance relaxation.
Exposure to sunlight (light therapy) also raises serotonin levels in the body.
Regular exercise also enhances serotonin release in the brain.
Some foods like eggs, avocados, pineapples and so many others boost serotonin levels in the brain.
Normal ranges of serotonin in the blood is 101 - 283 nanograms per millimeter (ng/ ML).
Festus C. Anaba, B Med.
Monday, November 5, 2018
THE ACCELERATOR AND BRAKES OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR: GLUTAMATE AND GABA
Glutamate and GABA
Glutamate and Gama-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are two different neurotransmitters, which are mutually related, in terms of their functions in the brain. Glutamate is to the brain what throttle is to a car, while GABA is to the brain what the brake is to the car. Glutamate facilitates learning and memory, but in very high amounts, it can lead to agitation, impulsive behavior and even violence. But GABA is always their as its faithful companion to act as the brakes when the brain is about to speed excessively by facilitating the reduction of glutamate levels. Therefore, GABA, by implications tranquilizes the brain by reducing too much nerve activity.
There is no doubt that human behavior is molecular in origin.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Glutamate and Gama-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are two different neurotransmitters, which are mutually related, in terms of their functions in the brain. Glutamate is to the brain what throttle is to a car, while GABA is to the brain what the brake is to the car. Glutamate facilitates learning and memory, but in very high amounts, it can lead to agitation, impulsive behavior and even violence. But GABA is always their as its faithful companion to act as the brakes when the brain is about to speed excessively by facilitating the reduction of glutamate levels. Therefore, GABA, by implications tranquilizes the brain by reducing too much nerve activity.
There is no doubt that human behavior is molecular in origin.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Sunday, October 21, 2018
BRAIN CHEMISTRY AND BEHAVIOR
Brain Chemistry and Behavior
Chemicals known as neurotransmitters facilitate the transfer of information/stimuli/signals/data from neuron to neuron (cell to cell) within the neuronal network in the brain.
The brain is involved in almost all the bodily activity including speech, movement, vision, hearing, smelling, tasting, learning and thinking processes. These chemicals (neurotransmitters) are synthesized in the compartment of the neurons called the cell bodies. In simple terms, these chemical signals are modulated and harnessed in the brain to produce different kinds of bebehavior and information ttransfer.
These chemicals include glutamate, Gama-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, nor-adrenaline (nor-epinephrine), acetylcholine and so on.
It is so fascinating that our behaviors are produced by interaction of chemical molecules. And by implication, chemicals control our world. It is important for us to have a good knowledge of the neuro or psycho-active substances for the good of the whole world.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
Chemicals known as neurotransmitters facilitate the transfer of information/stimuli/signals/data from neuron to neuron (cell to cell) within the neuronal network in the brain.
The brain is involved in almost all the bodily activity including speech, movement, vision, hearing, smelling, tasting, learning and thinking processes. These chemicals (neurotransmitters) are synthesized in the compartment of the neurons called the cell bodies. In simple terms, these chemical signals are modulated and harnessed in the brain to produce different kinds of bebehavior and information ttransfer.
These chemicals include glutamate, Gama-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, nor-adrenaline (nor-epinephrine), acetylcholine and so on.
It is so fascinating that our behaviors are produced by interaction of chemical molecules. And by implication, chemicals control our world. It is important for us to have a good knowledge of the neuro or psycho-active substances for the good of the whole world.
Festus C. Anaba, B Med. Sci. Physiology
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