You can get smarter

The human brain has 100 billion neurons.  On each neuron are dendritic spines where the memory is and each one has over 55,000 connections.  So, what we have here is this:  the average brain has between 500 to 1,000 trillion connections.  If you were to look at the stars in the universe you'd get an idea of all the connections your brain has.  

We have a lot to work with and we can always get better.  It has always been a myth that we only use "10% of our brain."  Not true.  We always use 100% but many people do not use it wisely.  

For decades it was thought that if you lose neurons they could not be replaced, e.g, if you went out and got drunk it would cost you approximately 400,000 neurons the alcohol would destroy and they would be gone forever.  Not true.  In the past decade neurogenesis has been proved to be true.  Neurogenesis literally means the beginning of new neurons.  You can grow neurons, and especially in some memory sites such as the hippocampus.  In a recent study from a leading university, it was discovered that if an alcoholic were to stop drinking that within two weeks neurons were growing in certain memory centers of the brain.  

 In order to increase dendrites in the brain and make more connections and thus get smarter, here are some of the things you would need to do.

♥  Get as much education as you can.  

♥  Socialize as much as you can.

♥  Read your Bible and as much stimulating things you can.

♥  Get at least 7 hours of sleep a night and 8 would be better.

♥  Eat properly.

♥  Reduce stress as much as possible.  Simplify life.  Pray.

♥  Treat depression if you have it.

♥  Stop smoking.

♥  Avoid strokes, diabetes and heart disease.

♥  If you have to drink, do so in moderation.

♥  Stay lean.  Every 10 pounds over weight = 70 pounds of 

     pressure on each knee, e.g., 100 pounds over = 700 pounds 

     of pressure on each knee.  Too much strain on whole body.

♥  Exercise.  Get doctors OK that you are healthy enough to.

     The goal is 2 1/2 hours a week.  30 minutes a day for 5 days.  

     Why?  It increases blood flow to the brain = more oxygen.  

     It increases new synaptic connections in the brain.  Produces

     more endorphins.  Most important:  those who exercise 

     regularly are less likely to get Alzheimer's Disease.  Only one

     half the risk.