Content by Lorie Bell-SHW Research Team

Brain types refer to the categorization of individuals based on their brain activity patterns. According to Dr. Daniel Amen, a clinical neuroscientist and psychiatrist, there are 16 unique brain types. These brain types are based on his brain imaging work and are divided into 5 primary brain types and 11 combination brain types.

The 5 primary brain types are:

1. Brain Type 1: BALANCED– Individuals with Brain Type 1 typically show full, even, symmetrical activity throughout the brain, with the most activity in the cerebellum – one of the brain’s major processing centers. People with Brain Type 1 tend to live longer because of their high level of conscientiousness. They show up on time and follow through on tasks. They usually don’t take big risks and play by the rules.
2. Brain Type 2: SPONTENUOUS-Individuals with Brain Type 2 usually show lower activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in brain scans. The PFC is the brain’s brake system. It can help people think before they speak or act. Brain Type 2 may be associated with lower activity of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved with focus and motivation. People with this Brain Type are likely to need excitement or stimulation to stay focused.
3. Brain Type 3: PERSISTANT– Individuals with Brain Type 3 are often tenacious, persistent, and sometimes stubborn. They tend to struggle with worry, have trouble sleeping, and like things to be done a certain way. Those with Brain Type 3 often have increased activity in the front part of the brain called the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG). The ACG influences your ability to “go with the flow.” When the ACG is overactive, probably due to low activity of serotonin, people can have problems shifting attention.
4. Brain Type 4: SENSITIVE– Brain Type 4 individuals tend to show increased activity in the limbic (or emotional) centers of the brain, making them highly sensitive and empathic, but also subject to mood issues. People with this Brain Type may struggle with constant negative thoughts and pessimistic tendencies.
5. Brain Type 5: CAUTIOUS– Brain scans of individuals with Brain Type 5 often show heightened activity in the anxiety centers of the brain, such as the basal ganglia, insular cortex, and/or amygdala. This is probably linked to lower activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps calm the brain. People with this brain 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 but also more prepared.

In addition to these primary brain types, there are also 11 combination brain types that exhibit characteristics of more than one primary type. Understanding your brain type can help you optimize your brain function by tailoring your diet plan, supplement recommendations, and lifestyle choices accordingly.

I hope this information helps you understand more about brain types! If you would like more information on this topic or have any further questions, feel free to subscribe to our Stay Healthy Weekly eNewsletter.