How stress changes the brain, according to a new study



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If you have a lot of stress in your life, like most of us, this could result in memory loss and a slight narrowing of the brain at age 50, according to a new study. Published in the journal Neurology research shows that over time, high levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, were badociated with memory impairment and shrinkage of the brain. Although stress changes the brain in potentially serious ways, you can take certain steps to counteract its effects. Researchers point out (er) that it's not necessary to insist on these results, you can do a lot.

"Higher levels of stress hormone cortisol appear to predict brain function, size, and performance." We found memory loss and brain shrinkage in relatively young people well before Appearance of any symptom, "Dr. Sudha Seshadri, author of the study in neurology, told CNN following cognitive tests to reduce stress."

For this study, more 2,000 healthy and healthy middle-aged volunteers participated in the research. The study authors found that participants with higher blood levels of cortisol did not perform as well in memory tests as those with stressed participants also had a slight narrowing of the brain and these effects were also participants noted that the data were adjusted for age, bad and the fact that participants smoked.

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TIME reports that during the study, which lasted eight years, MRI was used to badess brain volume, while each subject of the study The study underwent a psychological examination testing his memory and thinking abilities. Blood tests were also used to track cortisol levels. TIME further notes that, even though the researchers did not follow to determine whether the study participants later developed dementia, it is possible that the long-term effects of cortisol on the brain could predict cognitive decline in the coming years.

"We have already shown that changes of this magnitude actually predict levels of mental dementia, or even vascular brain injury, two or three decades later," said Dr. Seshadri at TIME .

Giphy [19659008] Although this information may be difficult to process, it is important to note that Stress is an integral part of life. During normal stress response, cortisol is at the heart of the fight or flight response, according to LiveScience. If you have to face a legitimate threat, the function of cortisol during a stressful event is the key to safety. However, once the threat has pbaded, cortisol levels should drop again as your body resumes homeostasis. When this does not happen and cortisol levels remain high, health problems can occur in the long term.

Fortunately, you can do something to counter the damage that can be caused by chronic stress. According to Verywell Mind, self-care strategies can make a big difference to your ability to withstand stress. Exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating well can greatly increase your stress endurance. In addition, by mentally defining the stressors in your life as challenges that can make you stronger or disadvantages that will occur, you will be better able to better manage what you are going through. Plus, by staying engaged and supported socially and pursuing activities you love, you can help keep your mind alert, while getting the emotional support you need to navigate the curves of life. Stress occurs, so breathe deeply, take care of yourself and avoid stress.

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