The idea that we only use 10 percent of our brains may turn out to be a myth, as roughly 80 percent of our cognitive power may be working on tasks we are completely unaware of.

According to scientists who have conducted studies using ferrets, this hidden activity may only exist in older brains, as they may occur due to the subconscious reprocessing of initial thoughts and experiences. In addition, studies proved that neural patterns in adult ferrets correlated well with images viewed, while in very young ferrets a correlation did not exist. Thus, scientists concluded that understanding vision might be a different task for young brains as opposed to old ones.

Scientists found that when placed in a completely dark room, free of any visual stimulation, older ferrets’ brains continued to run at 80 percent. It was discovered that while watching the movie, ferrets’ neuron activity was increased by 20 percent.

This suggests that even with eyes closed, human adults’ brains are running at 80 percent, and in opening their eyes, including the additional 20 percent.

Scientists were intrigued to find that the ferrets’ brains were processing even though there was no image there to process. The research was then aimed at figuring out if there was any connection between visual processing and real-world images. The experiment involved the film “The Matrix” and 12 ferrets. Scientists hoped to uncover whether there was indeed a relationship between the statistical motion seen in the film and the way visual neurons in the ferrets fired.

During the study scientists recorded how the ferrets’ brains responded to the film, enlarged television static and a darkened room. They found that:

• Each visual neuron in the brain is keyed to respond to certain visual elements (for example, a vertical line)
• The combined neurons process an image of many lines, colors etc.
• Scientists were able to see a match between the ferrets’ response to the film and the actual visual aspects of the film

The study showed that although the adult ferrets seemed to respond similarly to what was happening in the film, younger ferrets formed almost no relationship. Consequently, younger ferrets could not process the stimuli in a way that reflects reality.

To explain the disordered processing that occurs in the young brains, scientists refer to dyslexia as a comparison, in that infants could very well see the world as a mass of dissimilar scenes and sounds.

Further, scientists were able to gain a deeper insight on the processing going on within the brain because the subjects tested were awake and conscious.

Science Daily October 13, 2004

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

I never bought into the common scientific understanding that we only use 10 percent of our brains. I always believed that the more precise statement was that we only UNDERSTAND what 10 percent of our brain is doing. I just can't believe that God would leave 90 percent of our brain unused. Thus, the idea that we only use 10 percent of our brain is a myth and should not be used as an excuse for not reaching goals and seizing opportunities when they come your way. Instead, you should be ask yourself how you can find ways to improve upon your existing brain capabilities. As this could be done in a number of ways, it is important to remember that a nutritious eating plan and regular exercise are two key factors. Also, I highly recommend you consider one of the high-quality brain-enhancing programs on the market … the one I routinely use and trust is the Focus 2-CD set, which will help you improve your levels of concentration and clarity, and increase your memory, creativity and problem-solving skills. Keeping your brain strong is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. I suggest partaking in additional ways to challenge your mind with new ideas, such as taking a course in a foreign language or doing crossword puzzles. Finally, blueberries are a particularly powerful brain-boosting food. You can likely find organic blueberries in your local health food store, and I have also found (and routinely consume) a delicious and highly convenient Wild Blueberry IQ Softgel Capsules that is made from whole fresh blueberries -- and contains 40mg of potent disease fighting anthocyanins per capsule!. You can find out more about these Blueberry softgels and order them through our Recommended Products section. Related Articles: Teach Your Memory How to Remember Mind-Training Exercises Keep Your Brain Fit as You Age Brain Connections Developed Last Go Away First Harnessing Brain Protein The Key to Anxiety, Sleep Disorders?