What Is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity — also called neural plasticity or brain plasticity — is the brain's remarkable ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. For decades, scientists believed the brain was “fixed” after childhood. We now know this is profoundly wrong.
Neuroplasticity encompasses two primary forms:
- Structural plasticity — physical changes in brain structure (neurogenesis, synaptic pruning, dendritic branching)
- Functional plasticity — the brain's ability to move functions from damaged areas to undamaged areas
Key Molecular Drivers of Neuroplasticity
BDNF — Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
BDNF is the brain's primary “growth hormone.” Higher BDNF levels correlate strongly with learning speed, memory formation, and protection against neurodegeneration. BDNF-boosting interventions include:
- Aerobic exercise (the most potent known BDNF stimulator)
- Lion's Mane Mushroom (via NGF stimulation)
- Coffee fruit extract / NeuroFactor
- Intermittent fasting and ketosis
- Blueberries and anthocyanin-rich foods
NGF — Nerve Growth Factor
NGF promotes the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. The most studied supplement for NGF stimulation is Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), which contains hericenones and erinacines shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate NGF synthesis.
Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)
LTP is the cellular mechanism underlying memory formation — the strengthening of synaptic connections through repeated activation. Key supplements supporting LTP include phosphatidylserine, citicoline, and bacopa monnieri.
Supplements That Support Neuroplasticity
- Lion's Mane Mushroom — NGF stimulation, myelin repair, cognitive recovery
- Bacopa Monnieri — Synaptic density, dendritic growth, memory consolidation
- Omega-3 DHA — Cell membrane fluidity critical for synaptic transmission
- NMN/NAD+ — Sirtuin activation, BDNF signaling, mitochondrial biogenesis
- PQQ — Mitochondrial biogenesis, BDNF expression
- Citicoline — Phosphatidylcholine synthesis for cell membrane integrity