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Over the last 3 decades at Amen Clinics, we have been helping people improve their brains and their lives. One of the
unique aspects of our work is that we use a sophisticated brain imaging study called SPECT (single photon emission
computed tomography) to help us understand and help our patients. Weve performed more than 115,000 SPECT
scans on patients from 111 countries. One of the most important lessons weve learned from SPECT is that all brains,
even healthy ones, are not the same.
A long time ago Dr. Amen realized that not everyone can get a scan, either because of cost or they are not near one of
our clinics. So based on thousands of scans, he developed the Brain Health Assessment to help people know which
brain type they might have and ways to optimize it. The questionnaire is not as accurate as getting an actual scan, but
many people find it a helpful tool to learn more about their brain. Versions of the Brain Health Assessment are used by
thousands of medical and mental health professionals around the world. Of course, you should always talk with your
healthcare professional before making any changes to your medical regimens.
The SPECT scans for Brain Type 12 typically show lower activity in the front part of the brain, in an area called the
prefrontal cortex (PFC). Think of the PFC as the brains brake. It stops us from saying or doing things that are not in
our best interest, but it can also stop creative, out-of-the-box thinking if it works too hard. The PFC is the little voice in
our heads that helps us decide between the banana and the banana split. Brain Type 12 may be associated with lower
In addition, people with this type are also often take-charge people who wont take no for an answer. They tend to be
strong-willed, tenacious, and sometimes stubborn. They also may worry, have trouble sleeping, and like things to be a
certain way. Brain Type 12 also often has increased activity in the front part of the brain, in an area called the anterior
cingulate gyrus (ACG). We think of the ACG as the brains gear shifter. It helps people go from thought to thought or
move from action to action. It is involved with being mentally flexible and going with the flow. When the ACG is
overactive, usually due to low levels of serotonin, people can have problems shifting attention, which can make them
persist, even when it may not be a good idea for them to do so.
Brain Type 12 also shows heightened activity in the anxiety centers of the brain, such as the basal ganglia, insular
cortex, or amygdala. This is often due to lower levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps calm the brain.
People with this type tend to be motivated toward a goal. They can feel intense pleasure, but also struggle with
feeling anxious or nervous, which causes them to be more cautious and reserved, although more prepared.
The best strategy to balance Brain Type 12 is to find natural ways to boost dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. Physical
exercise boosts both dopamine and serotonin as does using a combination of certain supplements, such as 5-HTP and
green tea. GABA, magnesium, and theanine can also help, as can omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D.
Mental No matter what your age, your brain has the ability to form new connections and neurons -- a
Workouts
phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. In a way, your brain is like a muscle the more the use
it, the stronger it gets! New learning and brain games can support your memory and focus,
ability to shift mood, resilience to stress, and more!
Motivation If you want to feel happier, healthier and have more energy, define your specific motivations to
change and look at them every day!
Journal your progress -- Studies show that people who journal are twice as successful in
achieving their goals. Being able to see your progress is a great motivator that will keep you on
track and headed in the right direction!
Strengthen Hypnosis, meditation, killing the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts), and expressing daily
Your Mind
gratitude and appreciation are all powerful tools to decrease stress and help keep your brain fit.
Brain Type 12 generally does better with a diet balanced between protein and complex
carbohydrates. This type of diet will boost dopamine and serotonin levels naturally. It will also
help balance your blood sugar, help you focus, and provide the necessary building blocks for
brain health.
Brain The addition of high-quality supplements can support how your brain functions, making it easier
Supporting
for you to follow a brain-healthy program.
Supplements
For Brain Type 12, Dr. Amen often recommends the following supplements:
Brain and Body Power, which includes:
o NeuroVite Plus, a comprehensive, power multi-vitamin/mineral complex
o Omega-3 Power fish oil
o Brain and Memory Power Boost
Focus and Energy to help support dopamine levels and focus; it contains green tea
extract, ginseng, rhodiola, choline, and ashwagandha
Serotonin Mood Support to help support serotonin levels and a positive mood; it
contains saffron, 5HTP and inositol
Everyday Stress Relief to help support GABA and a sense of inner peace
ProBrainBiotics a brain-directed probiotic, because the health of your gut is essential
to the health of your brain
Vitamin D to support a healthy immune system and moods
Physical Strengthen your body to boost your thinking, memory, and focus and reduce the risk for age-
Exercise
related cognitive decline.
Know Your You cannot change what you do not measure! Know and optimize the following numbers on a
Important
yearly basis to keep your brain strong.
Numbers
Body mass index (BMI)
Blood pressure
Complete blood count
Community The more you learn about brain health, the more you can teach other people and create your
own community of support. Teach your spouse, children, co-workers, and friends to take better
care of their brains. Get them to take the Brain Health Assessment.
In Brain Fit Life (www.mybrainfitlife.com) we have developed tools to help each brain type based on the 7 pillars of
Brain Health. In Brain Fit Life you can:
Better Together
Tools to support your brain-health journey and build a community of support