How a Simple Ingredient Can Boost Brain Health

I knew extra virgin olive oil is good for you, but I didn’t know how good. According to this study, cooking with EVOO can make you sharper for longer:

“A two-year study found that people who consumed it had better cognitive performance and more diverse gut bacteria than those using refined olive oil. Researchers even identified specific microbes linked to these benefits. The findings suggest that choosing high-quality olive oil could be a simple way to support brain health as you age.”

The study points to a meaningful link between extra virgin olive oil, gut bacteria, and brain health. But remember, the type of oil matters.

Extra virgin olive oil is obtained using mechanical methods, which help preserve its natural compounds. Refined oil doesn’t cut it.

What Else Can You Do to Improve Brain Function That Isn’t Hard?

I worry a lot about dementia. We all want to live a long life, but how do we do that while maintaining mental sharpness? And I don’t want to hear that I need to learn to play bridge. I’m not interested in that game. It looks too difficult, and honestly, seems like way too much work. I want to do something fun!

Well, this Harvard Health article says you can have fun and improve brain function through enjoyable activities, like painting, crafting, doing crossword puzzles, and solving math problems (that was defintely on my list!)

Also, physical exercise will actually improve brain health as well. Animals who exercise regularly increase the number of tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the region of the brain that is responsible for thought.

Build Social Connections to Improve Brain Function…Really?

I’ve heard that statement so many times. But it has me stumped. How can socializing improve your cognition? And is it even worth it?

Socializing is stressful for me. I avoid social invitations at all costs. My son said to me the other day, “You can Dad could have a really busy social life if you wanted to.”

I know we could. We live in a vibrant neighborhood. There are constantly activities at the club house, and the neighbors are always hosting “drinks in the driveway.” It is exactly what it seems. I have never been. Probably because we don’t drink. And after a long day of work, making conversation even with the nicest people is just too hard.

Actually, abstaining from alcohol should help keep my wits about me longer. Doesn’t that outweighs the not-socializing factor?

I don’t think it works like that. But I understand the concept...Neuropathways and all that. I guess I will make an effort to socialize more. Does stopping to talk to neighbors during my walks count?

Apparently yes! According to Harvard health:

“Small social interactions significantly improve brain health, bolster cognitive function, and reduce dementia risk by fostering neural connections and decreasing stress.”

Small Things to Do Right Now to Improve Brain Health

The Mayo Clinic says it’s simple. Protect your head!

“Help avoid hits to the head by wearing a seatbelt in the car. To keep from falling, be careful with your footing on ladders, on uneven ground or when you're in an unfamiliar area. Help prevent falls at home by removing clutter from stairs and hallways. Keep stairways well lit. Make sure all carpets and rugs are firmly attached to the floor so that they don't slip.”

The article goes on to say that you should make sleep a priority:

“Adults should sleep 7 to 9 hours a night. If snoring disrupts sleep, make an appointment with your healthcare professional. Snoring could be a sign of a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea. Conditions that disturb sleep may raise the risk for a decline in thinking skills and dementia.”

For me, that is an utter fail. I wake up at 4 a.m. everyday. Don’t know why, am not going to change now. Some habits are easier to break than others.

OK, this one I can do: Make a salad. It goes back to the whole Mediterranian diet being essential for brain health. More extra virgin olive oil please!