6 TIPS FOR BETTER BRAIN HEALTH
A brief lapse in memory, such as misplacing your wallet or forgetting a birthday, is often associated with being overly busy or having excessive stress. In fact, memory loss is a common part of ageing.
What can be problematic is when the episodes of forgetfulness increase and intensify into a more severe problem, such as mild cognitive impairment or even Alzheimer’s disease. This is why taking care of your brain health is essential.
Fortunately, there are small daily efforts you can make to slow memory decline. Consider the following six tips for improved brain health:
1. Exercise Daily.
Physically active people are less likely to experience a decline in their mental function. The increased blood flow to the brain during exercise aids the natural brain connections that occur during ageing. In fact, regular exercise may reduce the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimers by 30% and 45%, respectively, according to the Alzheimer’s Society.
A simple routine of 30 minutes of physical activity daily can help boost your brain health. Try choosing an activity that will increase your heart rate, such as hiking, playing tennis or cycling.
2.Eat a Balanced Diet.
A balanced diet not only helps physical health but cognitive functions as well. Try to incorporate foods high in monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. These foods could include salmon, nuts and avocados, for example. It’s also important to avoid foods high in trans and saturated fats, such as processed foods and fatty cuts of beef.
3.Get a Good Night’s Sleep.
Sleep plays a vital role in overall health, including brain health. To get a good night’s sleep, aim for seven to eight consecutive hours of rest per night. This gives the brain a chance to detoxify and relax after each day, which is critical for a healthy brain and memory.
In contrast, a lack of sleep can be detrimental to brain health. Thus, if you’re having trouble sleeping after attempting self-help measures, contact your doctor for further advice.
4.Participate in Social Activities.
Regular social interactions can help decrease memory loss. This is especially important if you live alone or work remotely. A simple way to incorporate social interaction into your daily life is to connect with loved ones such as family and friends. Additionally, consider trying a new hobby or class within your community.
5.Activate Your Brain.
The more mentally stimulated you are, the better your brain’s overall function will be. To engage in mental stimulation, consider participating in activities such as reading, brain games, painting and puzzles. If you’re looking for where to start with brain-stimulating exercises, speak to a medical professional for recommended resources.
6.Receive Regular Check-ups
Certain health factors, such as artery and vein health, are critical to brain health and function. As such, attend regular check-ups to determine your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Your doctor can tell you if these and other numbers are within a healthy range or provide care to improve them if not.
Conclusion
Brain health significantly impacts your memory and cognitive function. Practising these six habits can positively impact your brain’s health.
If you have further questions about brain health, contact your doctor for more information.
