Healthy Brain Tips for Adults

Healthy Brain Tips for Adults

Our brain is constantly changing. That’s the one fact about the most complex organ we have that controls every part of us. “Brain plasticity” is the ability of the brain to learn new information, make new connections, and repair damaged ones. Throughout our life, as we age or gain knowledge and have more experiences, our brain continues to develop. There are many things you can do to keep your brain functioning at its best as you grow older. A healthy brain is good for everyone.

Let us see why it is so important to have a healthy brain:

• Keeps your mind alert and active
• Promoted good mental health
• You can process information faster
• Improves coordination and motor function
• Acts as a shield against age-related cognitive decline
• Reduced risk of dementia
• Reduced risk of cerebrovascular accidents

Now that we know the importance of a healthy brain, what must we do? Here is a list of various healthy brain tips and suggestions that you can do to improve your brain health.

1. Try a new activity.

It could be learning to play a musical instrument, trying to solve a puzzle, learning a new language, or expanding your vocabulary in a known language. It can also be a new hobby! Read something new, take courses, try “mental gymnastics,” such as word puzzles or math problems. One of the best examples is Sudoku. Try something that actively stimulates your brain. And above all, have fun!

2. Feed your brain.

When you eat, it’s not just your physical health that gets nourished, it is also your brain. Eat healthy and nutritious food that improves brain function. Some good sources of food are fruits, vegetables, oily fish, tree nuts, unsaturated oils (olive oil), and proteins from plant sources (plant-based diet).

3. Keep on the move.

Physical activity is good for your body and mind. When you exercise, it increases oxygen flow as well as the growth of new connections, or synapses, between brain cells. I personally find physical exercise, especially running to be relaxing. Not just physically, but mentally as well. Do what you love. It can be a walk, jogging, skipping, anything that you like. Exercise also lowers blood pressure and can improve cholesterol levels while reducing stress. All these benefits make it a no-brainer “must” for your brain health.

4. Sleep well.

Try to get good sleep. In terms of quality and quantity. Push yourself to get at least a good 7-8 hours of sleep per day. Go to bed early. Wake up early. During sleep, your brain works to repair itself. That is the reason why sleep is so very important.  On the other hand, too much sleep, though, can lead to negative consequences such as inactivity and obesity.

5. Get social.

Meet up with friends and family members. Talk to new people about their experiences. Being social is linked with a lowered risk of dementia, as well as lower blood pressure and longer life expectancy.

6. Stay hydrated.

Even a 1-3% dehydration can lead you to lose focus and attention. Try to drink at least 2-3 litres of water every day. And an extra glass for every cup of tea, coffee, or alcohol.

Consult a mental health thearapist here

7. Manage your blood pressure.

Having high blood pressure can lead to cognitive decline as well as heart problems. Consult your doctor regarding blood pressure management.

8. Manage your blood sugar.

Diabetes is a risk factor for dementia. Therefore, it is important to eat right, exercise, and maintain physical health. If you have high blood sugar, please follow your doctor’s recommendations and try to keep it under control.

9. Limit alcohol.

Excessive alcohol consumption is a huge risk factor for dementia. Limit yourself to two drinks per day.

10. Take care of your head.

Head injuries can increase the risk of impairment of brain function. These impairments can lead to impaired cognitive function. Avoid falls, wear a helmet when doing outdoor activities such as hiking, riding a bike, or cycling.

11. Manage stress.

Do not excessively worry and stress about things or situations. It has been shown to lower your performance on cognitive tests. Try doing some yoga, meditation, taking a walk, or listening to your favorite music to relax and clear your head.

Read Here: Brain Games for Persons with Aphasia