Your body would be lost without your brain, but are you taking the necessary measures to keep it healthy? Your brain is one thing you don’t want to forget about. Our brain is constantly working to keep us safe and healthy. Unfortunately, as humans, we tend to forget to give our brain what it needs to keep us in tip top shape. In some circumstances, like accidents and sports, we can damage our brains as well. Sometimes these injuries escalate into traumatic brain injuries, which can have devastating consequences. While we tend to forget about the importance of our brain’s health, here are some easy ways to keep your brain in tip top shape!
Stay Active
Exercise improves blood flow and stimulates chemical changes in the brain that aid in learning, mood, thinking, and memory. Even light exercises like walking and yoga are proven to help fight the effects of brain aging. A good morning routine can help make sure you include some light exercise in your day.
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 is Crucial
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.
