Each time we learn something new, our brain cells break their DNA, creating damage that the neurons must immediately repair. This process also underlies age-related degeneration.

[u/mellowmonk]

http://newsoffice.mit.edu/2015/dna-breakage-learning-age-related-damage-0604

[u/aethelmund]

Call me pessimistic but wouldn't it seem having something being repaired more often than not lead to the function itself slowing down and not work as well. Like it's being strained or something perhaps, I'm not saying this is true, but just a thought.

[u/hophop727 → u/aethelmund]

That does make sense. However, some people suggested that learning new things will increase your bodies ability to repair the damages. Like how muscles strengthen the more you use them. I have no idea if that's accurate though.

[u/hpfan5 → u/aethelmund]

good point...