Brain Health

Your body would be lost without your brain, but are you taking the necessary measures to keep it healthy?

Stay Active

Exercise improves blood flow and stimulates chemical changes in the brain that aid in learning, mood, thinking, and memory.

Eat Well

Stress doesn’t just result in headaches, it also causes oxidation which damages brain cells. Food rich in antioxidants can help defend your brain against the harmful effects of oxidation.

Antioxidant rich foods include:

• Dark chocolate
• Strawberries
• Pecans
• Blueberries
• Artichokes
• Raspberries
• Kale
• Red cabbage
• Beans
• Beets
• Spinach

Sticking to a diet filled with lean protein, fruits, and veggies is essential to the overall health of your body. Remember, your waistline isn’t the only thing affected by fatty foods.

Challenge Yourself

You’ve heard the phrase “use it or lose it” and that just may apply to your brain. Mental exercise promotes new brain cell growth. Challenging your brain doesn’t necessarily mean attending classes and taking tests, try reading a book you enjoy, playing card games or completing a crossword puzzle. Exercising your mind may decrease your chances of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Sleep

Sleep has numerous benefits including the possible reduction of an abnormal protein called beta-amyloid plaque which is associated with Alzheimer’s. Sleep also helps to manage stress and gives the energy needed to stay active and get social.

Get Social

Leading an active social life isn’t just good for your emotional health, studies have also shown that social interaction slows the rate of memory decline. Spending time with your family, participating in a group hobby, volunteering, or loving on a pet are all great aspects of a healthy social life.

Protect Your Brain

Brain injury can raise your risk of accelerated cognitive decline. Remember to always wear your seat belt and wear a helmet when playing contact sports or riding a bike.