From the Guidelines
Increasing neuroplasticity is crucial for promoting neural growth, connection formation, and neurogenesis, and this can be achieved through a comprehensive approach that includes task-specific, motor training-based early intervention, such as Goals-Activity-Motor Enrichment (GAME) and constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), as supported by the most recent study 1. To promote neural growth and neurogenesis, it is essential to consider the latest evidence on neuroplasticity. The study by Lu et al. 1 suggests that acupuncture may promote neurogenesis in the brain damaged by stroke, and electroacupuncture at specific points can reduce cerebral infarct size and improve neuronal behavior. However, the most effective approach to increasing neuroplasticity is through task-specific, motor training-based early intervention, which induces neuroplasticity and produces functional gains, as recommended by Novak et al. 1.
Some key points to consider when promoting neuroplasticity include:
- Task-specific, motor training-based early intervention, such as GAME and CIMT, can induce neuroplasticity and produce functional gains 1
- Acupuncture may promote neurogenesis in the brain damaged by stroke, and electroacupuncture at specific points can reduce cerebral infarct size and improve neuronal behavior 1
- Early active movement and intervention are essential for maximizing neuroplasticity and minimizing deleterious modifications to muscle and bone growth and development 1
- The aim of early intervention should be to optimize motor, cognition, and communication outcomes using interventions that promote learning and neuroplasticity 1
In terms of specific recommendations, I suggest starting with task-specific, motor training-based early intervention, such as GAME, which has been shown to improve motor and cognitive skills in infants with cerebral palsy 1. Additionally, ensuring adequate sleep, nutrition, and stress management can also support neuroplasticity. While acupuncture may be a promising approach, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Overall, a comprehensive approach that includes task-specific, motor training-based early intervention, lifestyle modifications, and stress management can help promote neural growth, connection formation, and neurogenesis.
From the Research
Neural Growth and Connection Formation
- Increasing neuroplasticity has been associated with improvements in brain function, including neural growth and connection formation 2, 3.
- Physical exercise, in particular, has been shown to increase neuroplasticity via the production of neurotrophic factors, such as BDNF, GDNF, and NGF, which promote cell growth and proliferation 2.
- Aerobic exercise has also been found to influence cortical excitability and result in cognitive improvement, with direct cortical and structural changes 4.
Neurogenesis
- Neuroplasticity plays a crucial role in neurogenesis, the production of new neurons, which is essential for learning and memory 5.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been found to enhance adult hippocampal neurogenesis and promote synaptic plasticity 6.
- Physical exercise has been shown to facilitate neuroplasticity of certain brain structures, resulting in enhanced neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and angiogenesis 3.
Promotion of Neuroplasticity
- Physical exercise, including aerobic exercise, has been found to promote neuroplasticity and improve cognitive function in individuals of diverse age groups, as well as in people with and without brain disease 2, 3, 4.
- Non-invasive and non-pharmacologic lifestyle interventions, such as physical exercise and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, may help mitigate age-related neurodegenerative processes and promote neuroplasticity 5, 6.