The Blood Brain Barrier
The Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) is a term coined to describe the unique properties central nervous system vessels have, enabling them to tightly regulate the movement of substances (ions, cells, molecules) between the blood and the brain, in an attempt to protect the brain tissue. It will make sure that enough nutrients reach the brain, however, no toxins or pathogens can do the same. This barrier has a vital role in keeping our brain healthy and function optimally. Unfortunately many lifestyle factors impair the integrity of the BBB.
Injury of the BBB can be caused by:
Elevated levels of homocysteine, an amino acid
High cholesterol levels
Glucose imbalance
Systemic Inflammation
Stress
Dysbiosis – an imbalance of microbes within the body
Injury of the BBB leads to it becoming more permeable. This impairs the transport of substances across the barrier, which reduces nutrient delivery, increases the amount of toxic substances in the central nervous system, and increases the presence of compounds that are not normally present in the brain.
This results in
Lower than normal levels of oxygen
Abnormal signaling
Increased protein accumulation potentially leading to dementia
Micro bleedings
Inflammation
Abnormal glucose metabolism
These abnormalities, if maintained over time (think, no change in lifestyle); lead to brain dysfunction, neurodegeneration and even cognitive decline, dementia.
Things you can do to protect the Blood Brain Barrier:
Exercise regularly (my pet peeve)
Increase intake of (in diet or by supplementation):
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA): Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
Get your daily dose in one capsule
Niacin or vitamin B3, supplemented as niacinamid, usually part of a good quality multivitamin
Vitamin E, usually supplemented as an antioxidant complex, I recommend taking this for 2 months, twice a year, in order to upkeep the health benefits
Reduce the consumption of saturated fatty acids
Get adequate sleep
Minimize alcohol and drug use
