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Maintaining a Healthy Brain

Maintaining a Healthy Brain

Everywhere I travel I am asked what people can do to keep their brains healthy and specifically what they can do to help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia. The following are suggestions for maintaining brain health and reducing the risk of dementia.

1. Regular exercise: Regular exercise not only keeps the heart healthy, but keeps the brain healthy as well. When we exercise the brain produces proteins which help keep our brain cells healthy and expands capillary networks so blood flow improves. Exercise also causes the brain to produce chemicals which improve mood. Additionally, recent research has shown that the pathways primarily responsible for physical movement play a key role in helping our thoughts flow in a fluid and organized way. Thus, physical exercise improves our ability to think clearly and efficiently.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients that our brain and body require, but cannot make. If we don’t get this nutrient in our diet then we don’t have it and our body muddles through without it. In the body, omega-3 fatty acids raise good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol and, thereby, reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes caused by blocked blood vessels. But they do more, omega-3 fatty acids are powerful free radical scavengers. Free radicals are by-products of metabolism which damage cells throughout the body. Certain medical conditions such as Diabetes Mellitus (DM) cause a marked increase in the production of free radicals. People with DM often experience damage to their organs, i.e. retinal damage with loss of vision, kidney damage, and peripheral nerve damage causing neuropathies (painful conditions of burning sensation in the extremities). Recent evidence has demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids, by scavenging up free radicals, reduce the risk of such damage in diabetic patients.

These are all great things the omega-3 fatty acids are doing in the body, but more importantly, as a psychiatrist, I value the impact they have on the brain. Each individual brain cell has a membrane primarily constructed of a combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. When we don’t get omega-3 fatty acids in our diet, the brain doesn’t have them so the brain cell membranes are constructed without them. This causes the membranes to be more rigid and stiff, less elastic and pliable and is associated with an increased risk of mood disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder and post-partum depression. Additionally, without the free radical scavenging impact from the omega-3 fatty acids, the brain cells are more vulnerable to damage and evidence has indicated that individuals low in omega-3 fatty acids have greater risk for dementia.

Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained in flaxseeds, chia, black walnuts and wild (not farm raised) cold water fatty fish such as salmon or mackerel. Typically 2000 – 4000mg per day is sufficient. Omega-3 fatty acids can have a blood thinning effect so anyone taking a high dose of omega-3 fatty acids or taking a blood thinner, such as Coumadin (warfarin), should check with his or her doctor prior to taking.

3. Natural Vitamin E: Vitamin E is also a free radical scavenger and is beneficial in protecting the brain. However, studies have revealed that this benefit is only obtained when Vitamin E is obtained in food. In fact, some studies have indicated that supplements of Vitamin E actually cause harm. This is believed to be due to the fact there are multiple forms of Vitamin E in nature and the supplements do not contain all of these forms, whereas Vitamin E in food is balanced appropriately. Vitamin E can be found in wheat germ oil, almonds, sunflower seeds, peanut butter and hazelnuts.

4. Folic acid and Vitamins B6 and B12: During normal metabolism a by-product is produced called homocysteine. Homocysteine is damaging to the linings of blood vessels and to neurons (brain cells). Imagine pulling a piece of barbwire through a soft rubber hose. What happens inside the hose? Homocysteine damages the linings of blood vessels in a similar way. The body has two pathways to get rid of this toxic waste product. One pathway is dependent on Vitamin B6 and the other pathway is dependent on both B12 and folic acid. When we are deficient in these nutrients then homocysteine builds up and increases the risk of heart attack and dementia. Vegans and lacto vegetarians are at higher risk of elevations of homocysteine due to lower levels of these nutrients. Additionally, supplementation with these nutrients has been demonstrated to improve cognition, as well as mood.

5. Pomegranate juice: A recent study done on lab animals at Loma Linda University demonstrated pomegranate may be beneficial in reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s dementia. In the study researchers took lab animals bred to have high amounts of amyloid protein in their brains (this is the toxic protein believed to cause Alzheimer’s). They randomized the animals into two groups and fed them the exact same diet, except one group had the addition of the human equivalent of eight ounces of pomegranate juice per day. They biopsied the brains before and after the study and the animals without the pomegranate juice had a higher amount of amyloid in their brains at the end of the study than the beginning, but remarkably those receiving the pomegranate juice had 50% less amyloid in their brains by the end of the study.

6. Continued mental activity: The brain, like every other organ and system of your body, is strengthened with exercise. The more one engages in mentally challenging tasks, the more the brain is stimulated and responds by producing growth factors and expanding and strengthening the neural network. Individuals more mentally active throughout life are more resistant to developing dementia.

7. Healthy spirituality: Studies have revealed that those with a healthy intrinsic spirituality also have reduced risk of dementia. This is theorized to be due to lower levels of stress and stress hormones and, thereby, less oxidative stress on the brain throughout life. Additional factors include the added mental stimulation of thinking in spiritual ways which expands the neural network. Bible study is particularly helpful as it requires expanded mental activity in the contemplation of eternal and divine themes.

8. Altruism, giving and beneficence: Multiple studies have now demonstrated that those who engage in acts of kindness, those who live their lives with a giving heart, those interested in helping others have better health throughout life and suffer less illness. This may be due to less activation of the anxiety centers of the brain with subsequent decreased stress hormones and, thereby, less oxidative stress on the body and brain. For those of us who believe God is our designer this is no surprise, for such living is in harmony with God’s original specifications for mankind and would logically result in better health. Thus, the Bible says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22.

These eight interventions are obviously not an exhaustive review of activities that are healthy for the brain. But they are simple actions that each of us can take to keep our brains as healthy as possible. And the healthier the brain, the sharper the mind and ultimately the greater our

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Testimony 11

I would love to have a copy of “Healing the Mind” DVDs to have in my therapy office. I enjoy having clients check out materials to enhance their therapy experience. I have sat under Dr. Jennings’ teaching at an American Association of Christian Counselors convention and respect his work greatly.

K.B., LA, USA

 

Testimony 64

I’ve been reading the bible and walking with Jesus since I was around 16. I’m 42 now. I’ve mostly been alone in my walk although I went to several churches in different denominations. For the past 3 years God has been showing me His character of agape. It’s been a blessing and changed how I view God and my walk with Jesus. About a year ago I came across the power of love and the principles of design law. These teachings changed how I read scripture and have been such a beautiful blessing. I’m very excited and grateful for these truths. We share these truths of agape, design law and the reality of the principles of the two trees in the garden of Eden with people on Facebook and YouTube. People all over are learning to trust God and His agape design law which makes life possible. Thank you for everything you shared with me. May God continue to bless your ministry and lives.

Bradley M., Hinsdale, NY, USA

 

Testimony 62

I would like to express my thanks to the C&R team for creating a platform from which people can learn to trust in God and grow. My life is a witness to the effectiveness of this ministry. Without believing the truth about God as you have shown, I don’t know what my life would be like. I had given up on God helping me with certain sins – it was all useless. Given that the scripture is clear and God is so good, how could I have betrayed him so many times? I was a yo-yo christian; spinning up and down. My faith and enthusiasm was driven by discoveries/threats that prophecy is about to be fulfilled. But when I watched your “Healing the Mind” seminar, it was like a light finally went on. I could see God had no plan to hurt me, the danger came from sin, and that He is working to protect me and strengthen me. Thank you for allowing God to use you. The message God gave C&R saved my life!

Antony N. – Hobart, Australia

 

Testimony 18

The Healing the Mind DVD set tarted me on a journey that has changed my relationship with our loving God more significantly than any other study, and brought me to your book and Bible study podcasts, which I now listen to daily, thanks to the availability of archived content on your site and on iTunes.

Anonymous

 

Testimony 60

Just watched watched lesson 10 in the 1st quarter 2021 bible study classs on Isaiah. I want to thank you for your intellectual spirituality; it’s not an oxymoron! From the point of view of a teacher I also enjoy seeing how much personal pleasure you clearly take in not just tasting, but feasting on God’s word – it reminds me of Jeremiah not being able to hold it in! It makes me smile that your cup is so full and overflowing that you make it to Tuesday’s lesson (on a good day). It just goes to show the richness of God’s Word.

God bless the Come and Reason Team from our church here in Great Britain.

Andrew H., Great Britain

 

Testimony 38

Since November 2015, when I started studying Gods word from this God Is Love point of view, my life has been transformed. My troubled marriage of 15 years has been healed and my husband and I are truly happy for the first time in 15 years. Now When I read the word of God I understand it so much better and I can’t help but see Gods love radiating through the pages to humanity. Gods word is living and active and I am blessed beyond measure to be having this amazing experience. God has given me a beautiful understanding of Jn 3:16 that amazes me more and more each day. Thank you again for your ministry.

Helen D., London, England

 

Testimony 48

I just want to tell you how blessed I have been reading “The Remedy!” It has become a daily part of my devotional relationship with God. In it I have found a God of love and a God that loves me! The bible has come alive for me! It is the first time that I can say that I have felt hope fill my heart as I have read God’s word. This is good news I can share! Thank you, Dr Jennings! Thank you for your heart for others. I can’t put into words how this has set me free! It has strengthened my trust and love for God.

Jason H.

 

Testimony 34

I was introduced to Come and Reason Ministries by accident, via a passing comment made in a bible study class we were visiting. I checked this website out and my life was changed. The understanding of the truth of God’s character, and how we apply it, is so right. The tricky part is consistently applying which “lens” to look through. As I began to understand, I started sharing the basics of this understanding with a discussion group I was leading and, suddenly, a lot of things started to make sense that never used to. At the same time, I enjoyed an amazing opportunity. I was able to conduct a full bible study at WORK! What an amazing experience! It is such a joy to share the truth about God and to share how it all fits in the war between God and Satan. So many people benefit when we have a correct understanding about how God works and who He really is! Thank you for this transformational understanding. Keep up the good work! God Bless you!

Tony P., CA, USA

 

Testimony 58

I have been watching your videos in The Power of Love seminar and I must say these have liberated me and have improved my relationship with the Lord. I am no longer terrified of him as I was before following your teachings.

Thando N., South Africa

 

Testimony 41

I have been blessed by your ministry. I have experienced personally, and deeply resonate with, the God of love and the beautiful picture of God’s character that you present. I have seen your seminar series on YouTube, read ‘The Journal of the Watcher’ book, used your mobile app, and also listen/study the bible study lesson with you each week. I concur with many of the thoughts and perspectives that you share. I understand your conclusions on natural laws vs imposed law and the legal/penal substitution (incorrect diagnosis). This makes perfect sense to me.

Bless you for all you do.

Melissa L.

 

Testimony 5

We listen to your bible studies lessons in our class in Montana. You actually were the main reason I decided to get a laptop, so I can go to your site and listen, read, learn, and print the class notes. I am so grateful to learn the correct view of God and his character. Now, to just have others have an interest in knowing, so I can share it with them. Good thoughts your way.

R. N., MT, USA

 

Testimony 20

I just wanted to personally thank you for your teachings and insight into scripture. I came across your website via my cousin who suggested I look into “Healing the Mind” information. My youngest daughter has been struggling over the last couple of years and it all came to a head this spring. When I started listening to the “Healing the Mind” lectures my own life began to be transformed. I began sharing with all my daughters the concepts you laid out so clearly. I ordered your book and soaked it up. I just want to say “Thank You!” My walk with the Lord has been refreshed and renewed. Your obedience to the Lord is a blessing to so many.

R. K., Anderson, SC, USA

 

Testimony 6

I got the book “Could It Be This Simple?” a few months ago and the reading was wonderful and I was fascinated. I lent the book to a friend at work. She is having a difficult time and the book is helping her to find Jesus and I found this very exciting. She has asked me questions and I can see her life changing.

H. S., Australia

 

Testimony 74

Thank you so much for opening my eyes. I’ve been through a lot of ministries that just didn’t show the love of God that I felt he was. You have helped me to begin the process of true healing. I thought I was “too far gone,” now I know there’s hope in Jesus, because he loves us beyond what we can comprehend. Thank you again for all you do. I truly appreciate it and pray more people find you (physical at your studio and through this website).

Dalio M.

Testimony 31

It was very touching to hear the testimony of your class share how viewing God’s true character has changed their lives. My feelings are the same – there is so much freedom in knowing that God LOVES me – regardless of my… just, REGARDLESS! I’m still blown away by the true gospel, the fact that God is not ready to strike us when we fail. He is not arbitrary. He simply loves us and warns of the natural consequences because He can’t stand to see us suffer. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS GOD!!!

Ceil V.,  UT, USA