The human brain is an extremely complex organ that functions as the control center of the entire body. According to National Geographic, the human brain weighs approximately three pounds. The brain is one of the body's largest organs and contains around 100 billion nerve cells. The brain can be divided into three main parts; the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem. The brain is an extremely sensitive organ that is protected by three layers of membranes and a very thick skull.
Cerebrum
The cerebrum is the largest portion of the brain, accounting for 85 percent of the organ's weight, and is commonly divided into two hemispheres that are further divided into four pairs of lobes. Generally speaking, the left hemisphere of the cerebrum is responsible for functions on the right side of the body and vice versa. The frontal lobes consist of the forehead region and the upper top portion of the brain and the parietal lobe makes up the rear portion. The occipital lobe is located at the back base of the brain near the cerebellum. The temporal lobe runs along the side of the brain, the region commonly referred to as the temple. The cerebrum as a whole is responsible for several advanced functions such as intellectual development, speech, emotion, and sensory integration.
Cerebellum
The cerebellum is the second largest division of the brain and is located beneath the back of the cerebrum. The major functions of the cerebellum are to maintain balance and control movement and coordination. The cerebellum transmits information to both the spinal cord and other portions of the brain in order to control these bodily functions.
Brain Stem
The brain stem is the portion of the brain that is directly connected to the spinal cord. The brain stem regulates several automatic functions within the body including the control of heart rate, blood pressure, attention, and respiration.
Functional Control
The brain is in control of almost everything that goes on within the body. The brain plays a role in both involuntary and voluntary movements, sensory interpretation, emotions, learning and more. Due to the importance of the brain, it is extremely sensitive and the slightest disruption in normal function can result in serious complications. Infections, lack of oxygen, and accidents can all disrupt normal function of the brain and can cause both acute and chronic complications. Each individual situation is unique and could require certain types of treatment.
Keeping the Brain Healthy
Eating a healthy diet, participating in regular exercise, and taking necessary saftey precautions to prevent accidents can all help keep the brain healthy. Regular exercise and a healthy eating pattern can help our bodies resist infection and can strengthen our immune system to fight against infection if it occurs. In addition to the traditional methods of keeping the brain healthy, puzzles are great ways to challenge the brain and keep it sharp. Crossword puzzles, brain teasers, and Sudoku puzzles are a great ways to help keep the brain healthy. One AARP article lists 50 ways to keep the brain healthy including playing video games and working puzzles.
