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Chasing Life

Answering Your Burning Questions About The Brain

Dec 12, 2023
Dr. Sanjay Gupta answers burning questions about brain health, alcohol's impact, and changes in the brain during pregnancy and postpartum. He shares personal experiences as a brain surgeon and offers tips for staying sharp.
25:25

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Quick takeaways

  • Meditation can be an effective and affordable treatment for anxiety and other mental health disorders, showing the potential to influence stress pathways in the brain and alter brain structure related to attention and emotion regulation.
  • The brain has the ability to recover from alcohol abuse, as cutting back or quitting heavy drinking can lead to increased brain volume in areas responsible for decision-making and memory, highlighting the brain's neuroplasticity and its ability to repair itself.

Deep dives

The Science Behind Meditation and Mindfulness

There is growing research supporting the health benefits of meditation and mindfulness. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that meditation could be as effective as medication in reducing anxiety. The study showed that mindfulness can influence stress pathways in the brain and alter brain structure related to attention and emotion regulation. While people should consult with their doctors before making any changes to their medication, meditation is an accessible and inexpensive treatment option for anxiety and other mental health disorders.

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