Longevity logo

How to Keep Your Brain Young and Healthy

Keep Your Brain Young and Healthy

By Patrick AdamsPublished 3 years ago 4 min read
Like

We usually take our quick and sharp brain for granted, however, it ages just like the rest of our body. Sooner or later, most of us will all experience those moments where we can’t recall a relative’s birthday or don’t remember why we walked into a room. However, you don’t have to just sit back and watch your cognition decline. Here are a few things you should do to keep your brain young and healthy well into your senior years.

Start sweating

There are a hundred reasons to take up physical exercise, and keeping your brain sharp is one of them. Poor fitness levels have been associated with higher levels of white matter deterioration in the brain, which might mean a higher risk of dementia, too. Exercise keeps your heart and lungs strong, prevents conditions like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, and boosts blood flow to the brain. Incorporate aerobic exercises into your routine to strengthen the connections in your brain and preserve your memory.

Don’t skip sleep

A healthy amount of shuteye is necessary for our brains to function properly. Even just a small amount of lost sleep has noticeable consequences, so it is not difficult to imagine the damage chronic sleep deprivation can cause. Memory consolidation happens while we are resting, so it is no wonder that those who are not getting enough sleep are at a higher risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Prioritize quality sleep and make sure to deal with issues that may be causing you insomnia.

Engage your brain

Don’t let laziness prevent you from engaging your brain every chance you have to keep it in shape. You have probably heard the phrase “never stop learning” many times before. Our brains are built for learning and practicing this function regularly not only strengthens our existing neural circuits but also constantly creates new connections within our brains. You are never too old to take up new hobbies and try out new things. Learning something new will give some pleasant stimulation to your brain.

Give your brain a workout

Trying a new recipe or relearning to play an instrument you used to play as a kid is good for your brain. But just like you work your muscles, you should also give your brain a good workout sometimes. Go the extra mile and do some “brainy” activities to challenge your brain. Solve crossword puzzles, play board and trivia games, or find memory exercises online. All of these activities will improve your neuroplasticity while also being fun at the same time.

Improve your diet

Our diet affects our whole body, and our brain is no exception. Taking in the right nutrients will keep you safe from high cholesterol issues, obesity, as well as high blood pressure, slowing down cognitive decline. For instance, diets that are rich in folic acid, Omega-3 fatty acid, CoQ10 coenzyme and others can help prevent Parkinson’s disease which is one of the types of brain conditions that mainly affect the senior population. Consider switching to a Mediterranean diet for a better quality of life in your golden years.

Protect your mental health

Amidst all your lifestyle changes, it’s important to care for your mental health as well. Try not to stress yourself out as chronic stress can seriously affect cognitive functions. Try to stay positive and develop your own strategies for relaxation – exercise is perhaps one of the best examples. It is also recommended that you stay social and engaged: spending time with other people helps ward off depression and take your mind off worries that cause you anxiety. Social isolation can lead to a 50% higher risk of dementia, so be sure not to get detached from your social circles.

Limit your alcohol intake

Finally, it should also be mentioned that certain bad habits should be left behind for a healthy brain. Alcohol, for instance, is also linked to a higher risk of dementia if consumed excessively over a long period of time, so it is highly recommended that you limit your alcohol intake, not only to protect your brain but for other health reasons as well.

It is not impossible to prevent or at least delay the cognitive decline that comes with old age. Watch your diet and your everyday habits, engage your brain often and exercise regularly in order to enjoy a sharp mind for as long as possible.

health
Like

About the Creator

Patrick Adams

Patrick Adams is a freelance writer from Sydney. When he is not writing about home improvement, he loves to play his guitar. More than anything, he loves to spend his time in his garage, repairing appliances and creating stuff from wood.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.