Brain Teaser Answers

1. A – Three pounds. Your brain is composed of fats, proteins, nerve cells, and a supportive network of specialized cells, all enclosed within your skull.
   
   
2. C – Ventricles. Each of these cavities is filled with and surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid, which absorbs shock and maintains pressure inside your skull.
   
   
3. B – Reptilian brain. This part of the human brain is so-named because of its similarity to the simple brains of not only prehistoric reptiles but to those of most reptiles today. It controls many of your most basic biological functions: heartbeat, blood circulation, and breathing.
   
   
4. B – Hippocampus. This is the section of the brain that processes memories and stores short-term memories.
   
   
5. C – Dopamine. This neurotransmitter is also responsible for controlling movement. Critically low levels of dopamine can also cause Parkinson’s disease with its characteristic tremor and coordination difficulties.
   
   
6. A – Glucose. Your brain uses about 50 percent of your total-body glucose supply and a slow, steady stream of glucose is necessary for optimal brain functioning. However, quick-burning carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches, are almost immediately converted into glucose and delivered into the bloodstream in a rush, rapidly driving up glucose and insulin levels. Just as quickly, however, they fall, resulting in fatigue, mental confusion, irritability, and inability to focus. Therefore, the best foods for your brain are complex carbohydrates such as vegetables, legumes, and some fruits which release glucose slowly.
   
   
7. D – B12. As much as one-third of the mental deterioration and confusion experienced by older people can be linked to vitamin B12 deficiencies. To combat this common shortage, I recommend my older patients take 1,000 mcg of oral or sublingual B12 daily.
   
   
8. D – Free radicals. Free radical damage accumulates slowly and systemically throughout your body. Because of its high fat content and high consumption of oxygen, your brain is exceptionally vulnerable to the ravages of oxidation. Supplementing with a combination of antioxidants specifically designed to support healthy aging is your best means of defending against oxidative stress to the brain and other tissues.
   
   
9. C – Brown rice. While brown rice is a good source of B vitamins, it is not rich in EFAs. Your best bets are flaxseed, almonds, and tuna, as well as walnuts, salmon, and mackerel.
   
   
10. B – Watching an educational TV program. One of the most deadening activities for your brain is watching television. Even educational television creates a passive brain experience, and the knowledge gained from it does not increase brain power.

Bonus Question: The doctor is a woman…and therefore, she is the woman’s sister, not her brother.