What Is Neuroplasticity? (And Which Supplement Ingredients May Support It)

"Medical-style illustration of a human brain with a close-up view of active neurons and nerve signaling

The brain is dynamic, and is constantly remodeling neural circuits throughout life.  This neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize its structure, function, and connections in response to experience, learning, injury, and environmental input

At the cellular level, neuroplasticity includes:

  • Synaptic plasticity – strengthening or weakening of connections between neurons (e.g., long-term potentiation, LTP)

  • Structural plasticity – growth of dendritic spines and new synapses

  • Neurogenesis – formation of new neurons (most notably in the hippocampus)

  • Myelination changes – alterations in white matter efficiency

  • Neurotrophic signaling – upregulation of growth factors like BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor)

BDNF, NGF (nerve growth factor), and signaling pathways such as CREB, ERK, mTOR, and GSK-3β are central molecular regulators of plasticity.

There are several supplements that have been suggested to increase neuroplasticity, including:

  1. Lithium [2]
  2. Lion's Mane [3]
  3. Magnesium [4]

For a deeper look at intracellular enzyme modulation, see our breakdown of how lithium influences cellular signaling pathways.

For readers looking for a well-balanced supplement that includes lithium orotate, Lion’s Mane, and magnesium, you can explore formulations from MentaidHealth, which combine ingredients studied for their potential roles in neuroplasticity support.

References:

[1] Puderbaugh M, Emmady PD. Neuroplasticity. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; May 1, 2023. [PubMed Link]

[2] Puglisi-Allegra S, Ruggieri S, Fornai F. Translational evidence for lithium-induced brain plasticity and neuroprotection in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Transl Psychiatry. 2021;11(1):366. Published 2021 Jul 5. doi:10.1038/s41398-021-01492-7 [PubMed Link]

[3] Szućko-Kociuba I, Trzeciak-Ryczek A, Kupnicka P, Chlubek D. Neurotrophic and Neuroprotective Effects of Hericium erinaceus. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(21):15960. Published 2023 Nov 3. doi:10.3390/ijms242115960 [PubMed Link]

[4] Maier JAM, Locatelli L, Fedele G, Cazzaniga A, Mazur A. Magnesium and the Brain: A Focus on Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;24(1):223. Published 2022 Dec 23. doi:10.3390/ijms24010223 [PubMed Link]

About the Author

Erik Hanson, MD — Board-Certified Psychiatrist

Erik Hanson, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist with clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mood, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. His work focuses on the biological and physiological foundations of mental health, including micronutrients, neurobiology, and evidence-informed supplementation. He writes to translate complex clinical and scientific concepts into clear, accessible education grounded in current research.

Evidence and safety note

This article is intended for educational purposes and reflects current scientific literature and clinical understanding at the time of publication.

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