Answer:
- Four types of reflexes: 1-stretch reflex, 2-Golgi tendon reflex, 3-crossed extensor reflex and 4-withdrawal reflex.
- Components of the deep tendon reflex: intact sensory nerve, functional synapse in the cord, intact motor nerve fiber, neurotransmitter junction and muscle.
- Aging process affects the brain because brain shrinks with increasing age
- Good health practices can mitigate health problems associated with the brain: avoid foods high in fat and cholesterol, regular physical exercise, avoid smoking, avoid excessive alcohol intake, etc.
Explanation:
The four types of reflexes that are integrated within the spinal cord include 1-stretch reflex (that leads to the contraction of a muscle in response to passive stretching), 2-crossed extensor reflex (a contralateral compensatory reflex), 3-Golgi tendon reflex, and 4-withdrawal reflex (a spinal reflex that protects the body from damaging stimuli). The deep tendon reflex (DTR) is a reflex that elicits involuntary contraction of the muscle, which is a fundamental aspect of a neurological evaluation. The five components of a DTR include intact sensory nerve (afferent that carries sensory information), intact motor nerve fiber (efferent that sends signals from the brain), functional synapse in the cord, neurotransmitter junction and muscle. Accelerated aging can lead to brain atrophy and brain shrinkage (especially in the frontal cortex). Healthy lifestyle strategies can minimize changes in an aging brain. Aging leads to increased stiffness of the large arteries, thereby increasing the risks of stroke. Low-fat foods and high-fiber foods (e.g., fresh fruit and vegetables) promote a healthy vascular system and help to maintain brain health. In this regard, it is also imperative to avoid high-sodium foods. Moreover, it has been shown seafood consumption may also reduce the risk of stroke. Other tips include: energy restriction (calory restriction) reduces oxidative damage, antioxidant supplements help to improve cognitive functions, avoid alcohol intake reduces the risks of cardiovascular diseases and dementia.
