Latest news with #ArunL.Naik
Time of India
7 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
5 supplements a neurosurgeon takes to protect the brain
Dr. Arun L. Naik suggests supplements for brain health. Magnesium supports learning and memory. DHA is vital for brain cell structure and mood. Vitamin B12 prevents neurological issues. Creatine boosts brain energy and memory. Vitamin D regulates mood and protects against decline. These supplements can improve overall brain function. Consult a doctor before starting any new supplement. Keeping the brain in good shape is crucial for overall wellness. From controlling movement and emotions to coordinating many vital functions, the brain is responsible for some of the most complex tasks in the body. The brain requires certain nutrients for proper functioning. Dr. Arun L. Naik, a leading neurosurgeon trained at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has now shared a list of supplements he takes to protect his brain. Let's take a look. Magnesium Magnesium is an essential nutrient for the brain. Dr. Naik explained that this nutrient supports synaptic plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory. Magnesium L-threonate supplements, in particular, cross the blood-brain barrier effectively and thereby improve synaptic plasticity, which is essential for strengthening neural connections. Magnesium supplements regulate neurotransmitters like glutamate and GABA. Along with improving brain health, magnesium supplements may also reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and lower the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Magnesium has also been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 3BHK Transformation Possible for ₹4.5 Lakh? HomeLane Get Quote Undo DHA Second supplement on the neurosurgeon's list is DHA - Docosahexaenoic acid. This is an omega-3 fatty acid that constitutes 25% of the brain's fat. DHA is essential for cell membrane integrity and neuronal communication. According to the doctor, this supplement supports cognitive function and mood stabilization. Its anti-inflammatory properties also reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia. Vitamin B12 Despite its importance in brain health, people tend to ignore the deficiency of vitamin B12. This nutrient plays a crucial role in nerve myelination, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious neurological symptoms, including memory loss, fatigue, and nerve damage. Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products; however, supplementation may be required if your diet is plant-based. Creatine People tend to associate creatine with fitness, for its role in providing energy to the muscles. However, this compound is also essential for the brain cells. Creatine replenishes ATP, the brain's energy currency, especially when under stress or is sleep-deprived. Dr. Naik also stressed that this compound can boost memory in the short term, and also improve reasoning and prevent from mental fatigue. 'Benefits vegetarians (low dietary intake) and may protect against neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's,' he added. Vitamin D There is a reason why your mum asks you to get some sunlight every day. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that also plays a crucial role in the brain. It acts as a neurosteroid with receptors throughout the brain. The neurosurgeon adds that this nutrient regulates mood (linked to serotonin production) and protects against neurodegeneration. Low level of vitamin D is often associated with depression, cognitive impairment, and increased Alzheimer's risk. 5 Signs you are having too much Vitamin D
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Top neurosurgeon shares tips to boost memory and improve focus naturally
Dr. Arun L. Naik highlights the importance of acetylcholine for memory and focus. He suggests boosting it naturally through adequate sleep, mental stimulation, and mindfulness practices. Dietary changes, including consuming eggs, nuts, fatty fish, and leafy greens, can also help maintain healthy acetylcholine levels, enhancing cognitive performance and mental clarity. Keeping the brain in the best shape is crucial for overall health and wellness. In today's time, where many are overwhelmed with work and personal responsibilities, being forgetful and losing focus has become increasingly common. Dr. Arun L. Naik, a leading neurosurgeon trained at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has now shared some science-backed tips to stay sharp and focused. The neurosurgeon says that the key to sharper memory and improved focus lies in one powerful neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. What is acetylcholine Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that acts as a communication bridge between neurons. It acts as a chemical messenger that transmits signals between nerve cells and from nerves to muscles. From voluntary muscle movement to complex brain functions such as memory and attention, this neurotransmitter influences nearly every part of the nervous system. Low acetylcholine levels can lead to forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and even muscle weakness. Conditions like Alzheimer's disease are linked to acetylcholine deficits. 'As we age, acetylcholine levels can decline, particularly in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease, where the cholinergic system is one of the first to deteriorate. This has led to the use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (like donepezil) in treatment, aimed at increasing available acetylcholine in the brain,' the surgeon wrote in a post shared on Instagram. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trending in in 2025: Local network access control [Click Here] Esseps Learn More Undo The key is to boost acetylcholine to enhance cognitive performance and mental clarity. The neurosurgeon has shared some tips on how simple lifestyle changes and dietary choices can help you maintain healthy levels without medication. Let's take a look. How to naturally boost acetylcholine Certain lifestyle changes can help boost acetylcholine. Dr. Naik has suggested making the following changes. Adequate sleep: It is important to prioritize sleep. A good night's rest can help the brain produce acetylcholine. Aim for at least 7–8 hours of quality sleep every night. Mental stimulation: To keep the brain sharp, it is important to challenge it. Engage the brain with activities like puzzles, chess, or reading, which strengthen neural connections and support acetylcholine activity. Learning a new skill, like playing an instrument, can also help Mindfulness: Managing stress is important to keep the brain healthy, as chronic stress depletes acetylcholine. Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. Such practices can lower stress hormones and protect the brain's neurotransmitter balance. What are acetylcholine-rich foods Diet plays a pivotal role in acetylcholine production. Choline, a nutrient found in certain foods, is the building block for this neurotransmitter. The neurosurgeon has recommended adding these acetylcholine-friendly foods into your diet. Eggs: Egg yolks are great source of choline. A single egg provides about 169 mg of choline. This means eating just 2 eggs per day covers 61% of the DV. Nuts and seeds: Eating almonds and flaxseeds can help. Have a small handful of these nuts regularly Fatty fish: Good news for pescatarians. Salmon and other fatty fish are good for the brain. These fish provide omega-3 fatty acids, which enhance acetylcholine function and reduce brain inflammation. Aim for two servings per week. Leafy greens: Eat your greens. Spinach and kale are loaded with nutrients that support the production of the neurotransmitter. These greens also provide antioxidants that protect brain cells. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
