10/18/2022
So what does it mean to have a large hippocampus volume?? Let’s go over that….Located in the temporal lobe of the brain and part of the limbic system, the hippocampus is a complex structure responsible for storing and accessing our memories both short-term and long-term.
Hippcoampal volumes, measured via MRI, is providing some interesting data, including this study, with more revelations being made on what lifestyles and disease states are correlated with larger versus smaller hippocampal volumes. Higher verbal and memory scores are associated with larger hippocampal volumes so the goal is definitely to keep the volume high. This particular study also looks at the ability to think abstractly which provide a more creative way of thinking that goes beyond concrete thinking.
Smaller volumes/damage may lead to several neuropsychiatric disorders such as memory/cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. Fortunately studies like this are suggesting that diet, specifically an omega-3 rich diet, can help improve volumes and help reduce risk of memory decline. As a side note we already know that there is a link between stress and decreased volume, likely because there are many hormone receptors on the hippocampus. Stress and inflammation go hand-in-hand and omega-3’s have anti-inflammatory properties, do you see the link???
Considering this study was done with middle-aged men and women (average age of 46) free of dementia and/or history of stroke it should be encouraging to pay attention to our diet and stress levels now so that we can nourish ourselves both physically and emotionally to keep these vital organs working well.
Check out my previous omega-3 post for recommendations on daily intakes and send me a message if you have any questions on how to improve your diet and lifestyle to support a healthy future.
