Until recently, scientists thought that the number of brain cells was fixed at birth. However, researchers now know that new brain cells and nerve connections are generated throughout life. This is because new brain cells are important, because they make many more nerve connections than older cells. This enhances your capacity to learn and remember.

1. In a study carried out by scientists in Germany, their studies concluded that learning to juggle changes the brain. By mastering the skill of juggling, it is to increase the amount of neutrons that do not contain a myelin, in the areas of the brain that process and store visual information. Therefore, this new study has displayed that new stimuli can alter the brain's structure. This was clear when a comparison was made between the brain-imaging scan of individuals who did not juggle and then their brain-imaging scan three months after they had learned to juggle.

    

2. German scientists say that they have demonstrated for the first time that our brain continues to work on problems that we have been unable to find the solutions to during the day as we sleep, and the right answer may come more easily after 8 hours of rest. Jan Born, who led the study, said the results support biochemical studies of the brain that indicate that our memories are restructured before they are stored and creativity also appears to be enhanced in the process. Born said that the exact process in the sleeping brain for sharpening these abilities remains unclear. These results may also explain the memory problems associated with aging because older people typically have trouble getting enough sleep, particularly the kind of deep sleep that is necessary to process memories.

    

3. New studies have shown that physically exercising regularly is an important way in which an individual can expand. This information is based on a study that was carried out by researchers at the University of Illinois who found that men and women improved their memories significantly after participating in a six-month walking program. They believe that this was because aerobic activities increase the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, helping brain cells to stay healthy.

    

4. Other studies carried out by scientists indicate that our memory may crave particular foods that boost our memory. This is based on the idea that eating a healthy diet not only reduces an individual’s risk of strokes, but can also prevent permanent memory loss. Some of these healthy foods include orange juice, dark green vegetables, strawberries, bananas, wheat germ, extra lean red meat and seafood.

    

5. New science shows that mental exercise stimulates the growth of new brain cells and nerve connections as we age. Therefore, life-long learning and mental stimulation can help prevent memory decline and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. This is based on the research that was done by The American Society on Aging that displayed that people are less likely to develop serious memory problems if they have an above-average education and stay mentally active throughout their lives. According to Martin Wojtowicz, associate professor of physiology at the University of Toronto, "The use-it-or-lose-it rule applies to the brain, and mental activity exercises the brain cells. It stimulates the flow of nerve impulses through the brain circuits, which become stronger when you use them. If you are not active, the connections between brain cells deteriorate, causing your memory to deteriorate." Some of the ways in which an individual can attempt to exercise their memory is by participating in activities such as doing cross word puzzles, word problems, word searches, learn a new language or even read.

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