Dementia, a pattern of mental decline caused by various conditions, most commonly occurs when brain cells are damaged.
But while evidence suggests that new brain cells may slow memory decline, more research is needed to determine whether it can stave off the disease.
Some neuroscientists, including Dr Robert Love, firmly believe that growing new brain cells remains a promising tool to prevent cognitive decline.
The research took to TikTok to outline three evidence-based approaches to maintaining brain health and encouraging the growth of new brain cells, naming three supplements for better brain health.
Producing new brain cells may lower the risk of brain decline
GETTYThe recommendations focused on learning new activities, taking specific supplements and engaging in regular exercise.
He described the third element as the "absolute most powerful" method for promoting cell growth. Dr Love's first recommendation emphasised the importance of continuous learning.
"Learning new things helps increase your ability to grow new brain cells," he explained.
Specific supplements, namely, Lions Mane, Omega-3 and hesperidin, could further promote the growth of brain cells, according to the expert.
"Hesperidin helps protect new brain cells, so by protecting new brain cells that helps increase new brain cells," the neuroscientist stated in an argument supported by findings published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
He also highlighted the benefits of fish oil consumption, noting that the brain, outside of water, consists primarily of fat.
"So consuming fats like fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA, increases the ability to make new brain cells," Dr Love explained.
One body of research published in Science Direct in March 2024, found that a higher intake of omega-3s was associated with a risk of cognitive decline.
Lion's Mane was also mentioned for its ability to generate the protein known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
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Lions Mane may help the protein known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
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Although the research on Lion's Mane has been promising so far, studies on humans remain limited.
However, one cross-sectional study in Singapore found that people who are more than two portions of lion's mane per week had a 57 per cent lower odd of cognitive impairment.
The next recommendation of Dr Love's is exercise. He explained: "Exercise is absolutely fantastic for spurring neurogenesis and the growth of new brain cells."
He specifically recommended Zone 2 exercise, which refers to aerobic activities, as recommended by Dr Brant Cortright.
"Do something you like, you can play a sport, you can do jogging, but make sure you exercise 20 to 40 minutes a day, breathing hard," he advised, adding that it will "help facilitate the growth of new brain cells."
