The brain being the largest organ of the nervous system, is a complex organ that controls thought, memory, emotion, touch, motor skills, vision, breathing, temperature, hunger and every process that regulates our body.
The adage that says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, has recently been proven wrong when it comes to the brain. The human brain has an astonishing ability to adapt and change—even into old age. This ability is known as Neuroplasticity.
However, retardating changes to the body and brain remains normal with respect to age, with proper care and habits the brain can form new neural pathways, alter existing connections, and adapt and react in ever-changing ways.
How can I Improve my Brain Functions?
Some of our daily habits or activities can engage the brain in new ways, potentially leading to improvements in memory, cognitive function, or creativity. These lifestyles to improve brain health Includes;
Regular Exercise
Studies have proven that people who are physically active are less likely to experience a decline in their mental function and have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Both mental and physical exercises are very important for the brain. While mental exercise is important for brain health, it helps process and remember information, physical exercise increases oxygen to your brain and reduces the risk for disorders that lead to memory loss, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Get Enough Sleep
The brain is one of the highest beneficiary when we sleep. Health professionals always advice people to get at least 7-8 consecutive hours of sleep per night. Not fragmented sleep of two- or three-hour increments
Research shows that sleep is necessary for memory consolidation, with the key memory-enhancing activity occurring during the deepest stages of sleep.
Eat Good Diet
The brain is an energy-intensive organ. Eating healthy keeps the brain healthy and in good shape too. Our brain uses around 20 percent of the body’s calories, because it needs plenty of good fuel to maintain concentration throughout the day.
It also requires certain nutrients to stay healthy. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, help build and repair brain cells. Antioxidants reduce cellular stress and inflammation, which are linked to brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Stay Active
Playing card games or board games can be a fun way to socialize or pass the time. These activities may also be beneficial for the brain. Researches have shown links between playing games and a decreased risk of cognitive impairment in older adults.
- Playing memory card games
- Practicing crossword puzzles
- Playing video games
- sudoku
- chess
- checkers etc
helps improve cognitive function in some people.
Spending Time with Friends and Family
Social interaction helps ward off depression and stress, both of which can contribute to memory loss. Enjoying company of friends and family may be a mentally engaging leisure activity and may help preserve cognitive function
Reduce Stress
Stress is not good for the brain. Over time, chronic stress destroys brain cells and damages the hippocampus. The region of the brain involved in the formation of new memories and the retrieval of old ones. Studies have also linked stress to memory loss.
Also read: 6 Healthy Benefits Of Exercise To The Heart
Healthy Lifestyles to live Longer and Stronger
Healthy Tips To Maintain A Good Eyesight
Conclusion
No matter what age you are, taking care of the brain is one of the best things you can do to improve your concentration, focus, memory, and mental agility. Trying out the above lifestyles to improve brain health will go a long way in helping the brain remain in its top functioning level.
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