In my original BDNF post, I introduced research materials on how increasing BDNF levels can positively impact memory and cognitive functions. That post offers a science-based perspective on what BDNF does and the tools and behaviors we can use to increase the levels produced by our brains. In this last month, I’ve incorporated several of these recommendations into my daily life – and I think I’m starting to see positive results.
My Disclaimer…
First off… in my “lab”, it’s just me observing me in an uncontrolled trial of unstructured tests. I can’t compare the results to a version of me who’s not following this regimen, and with my optimistic and hopeful outlook to the future, to say that I’m unbiased would be far from indisputable. Also, my results may not be typical.
Secondly, always consult with a trusted medical professional before making changes to your supplements, diet, exercise regimen, or overall lifestyle.
What Did I Do?
Aerobic Activity – I incorporated aerobic activity into my week, with a target goal of three times per week, twenty minutes or more. Some days this is a brisk walk interspersed with short (very short so far…) intervals of jogging. When at the gym I use a treadmill or a stationary bike. Over the weekend it was an energetic hike up and around a good sized hill in our local park. It’s far from mountain climbing, but it certainly got my blood pumping.
Meditation – This was an easy one since it’s already a key component of my daily lifestyle. I meditated a minimum of twice per day in this period, working to maintain a correct posture that lets me relax my mind while keeping the keeping me alert and focused in the moment.
Mind-Body Health – I have worked much harder on maintaining a mindful awareness in as many moments throughout the day as possible. I started a gratitude journal that is beginning to give me a new appreciation for each day. These may seem like small adjustments, but my attitude seems to be more consistently positive.
Diet and Supplements – This is where I’ve made some of my biggest changes. I’m back on a rigid Keto lifestyle that, aside from all the neurological benefits, is also letting me shed a few unneeded pounds. Keto is a perfect match for what we should eat more of when healing from neurological trauma. I’ve added a supplement with coffee fruit extract, and take turmeric and fish oil daily. Additionally, I try to have at least one cup each day of coffee fruit tea, which I’ve found tastes great when brewed with a little stevia leaf. Finally, I’m mixing raw fermented cacao powder into my morning coffee.
What Happened?
It’s only been in the last week or so I’ve really started to notice differences. My working memory seems to be improving. As an example, I play a word game with my girlfriend and we both use the same cheat tools to make it as competitive as possible. Until just recently, I was never able to remember all seven of my letters when I switched screens to the cheat tool unless I took the time to arrange them in a mnemonic order. This last week I found myself not only remembering all seven letters, but also the letters on the board that I want to play off of. This is significant, and just one of the things I’ve noticed in the area of working memory.
Today I had a short-term memory event that left me feeling really good. I went to grab my multitool and found the case on my belt to be empty. Usually that would leave me wandering around everywhere I could remember being and checking every possible location until I found it. This time I was actually able to scan back through the last two days and I not only remembered where I’d last used it, I even remembered exactly where I’d set it. That was the moment when I decided I needed to write this BDNF follow-up post.
In Closing
This experiment is still in progress. This is just my personal interpretation of my own experience and there are no controls, but my anecdotal evidence is beginning to grow. I can’t confirm that I’ve actually increased my BDNF levels, but I’m practicing behaviors that are shown in scientific experiments to do so. I can’t confirm that increased BDNF has made this perceived difference for me, but the timing is rather suspicious.
I’m still at the beginning of this uncontrolled experiment, but the changes I think I’m seeing happen have encouraged me to continue on this path. It won’t erase the damage caused by my brain trauma, but if my condition improves in ways that make a difference in my life, then it’s worth doing. I’ll post periodic updates to let you know how it goes.
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