When it comes to cognitive enhancement, the Internet is flooded with a ton of information on the subject.
Unfortunately, a lot of that information is only based on speculation and flat-out lies rather than science and fact. With that in mind, we’ve decided to expose and debunk some of the most popular cognitive enhancement myths we hear time and time again.
Myth #1: Intelligence and brain health are determined solely by genetics
It’s the old nature vs. nurture argument. While studies have shown that a good portion of a child’s intelligence is passed down from the parents, the fact is that a great percentage of our intellect and overall brain health is influenced by other factors.
Our lifestyles and actions have a significant influence over how our brains grow and evolve thanks to lifelong neuroplasticity. In other words, there’s far more to cognitive performance than genetics, so you do have the ability to improve your brain health and capacity.
Myth #2: You can’t fight age-related cognitive decline
Age-related cognitive decline is real. Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are prime examples of age-related mental diseases. However, just because you get older doesn’t mean that decline is inevitable.
The fact is every brain evolves differently, and there are steps we can take to protect our brains against decline. From engaging and training the brain (e.g. crossword puzzles have been proven to keep minds sharp) to using cognitive enhancement supplements (in one study, Huperzine shown to improve memory and other cognitive function in a group of patients with the diagnosis of possible or probable Alzheimer’s disease), there are many effective tactics that can be used to fight age-related decline.
Myth #3: You have a separate “Brain Age”
Chances are you’ve heard the term “Brain Age” before. It’s a meaningless, misleading term. The idea behind it is that every brain has its own special “age” based on its health and a number of factors. This is a lie. A total myth.
The truth of the matter is that every brain is different. No two brains are exactly alike nor do they have the same expression of cognitive functions. Sadly, Brain Age is really nothing more than a term created by marketers to sell various cognitive enhancement products.
Myth #4: There’s only one right way to train your mind
Brain training is all the rage in recent years with several popular programs gaining mainstream attention. With lifelong neuroplasticity, it is, in fact, possible to train the brain and sharpen its performance.
However, there is no one specific program that’s best for brain training. While cognitive training can improve key functions, there are a variety of ways to do this. Meditation, therapy, and cognitive training are just a few different ways to impact brain functions.
Myth #5: All cognitive enhancement supplements are created equal
Like brain training products, cognitive enhancement supplements have risen to prominence in recent years. These days, supplement stores have shelves full of brain enhancement supplements of all types. Here’s the truth – some cognitive enhancement supplements work, others don’t.
The key is to find a cognitive enhancer that contains a balanced blend of proven, natural ingredients. Biohack Pure, for example, contains a proprietary formula of nootropics that each offers a unique cognitive benefit.
For example, pterostilbene is an antioxidant that protects the brain’s memory center against free radical damage while L-Theanine energizes the mind naturally to increase focus. Simply put, not all cognitive enhancement supplements are the same. Do your research!
Have a question about any of these cognitive enhancement myths? Wondering if something else you’ve heard may also be a lie? Share your thoughts with us.
