BDNF
BDNF, or Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, is a protein that plays a critical role in brain health. It's often likened to fertilizer for the brain because it helps support the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new neurons and synapses. In terms of self-care and mental health, activities that increase BDNF levels, like exercise, meditation, and learning new skills, can potentially improve mood, cognitive function, and overall brain health. It's a fascinating area of study, especially for someone as invested in self-care as you are. BDNF is particularly interesting in the context of ADHD because it's involved in the regulation of synaptic plasticity, which affects learning and memory. Research suggests that ADHD may be associated with alterations in BDNF levels, which could influence the symptoms of ADHD. For instance, some studies have found that exercise, which increases BDNF, can help manage ADHD symptoms by improving attention and reducing impulsivity. Understanding BDNF's role could offer you additional strategies for managing ADHD,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6780884/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25354496/