Keep your brain healthy with these tips.

Your brain is one of your most important organs. It is responsible for everything from your thoughts and emotions to your physical movements.

As we age, it is natural for our brain function to decline slightly. However, there are lifestyle choices we can make to keep our minds sharp. Here are five mistakes not to make to keep your brain healthy:

Mistake #1: Not getting enough sleep.

Sleep is one of the pillars of better overall health. Not getting enough sleep can be a major cause of brain problems. When you suffer from sleep disturbances, they can prevent your body from relaxing and repairing itself. Over time, you may be at serious risk to your immune, heart, and nervous systems.

It is important to get full rest and restful sleep to avoid cognitive problems, such as difficulty concentrating and making decisions. If you do not get enough sleep or you suffer from sleep disorders, it is important to consult a doctor. Through its diagnosis, you can determine the underlying cause and put in place a treatment plan.

Mistake #2: Having an unhealthy eating pattern.

Just as eating healthy foods helps the rest of our body function properly, it also benefits our brain. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is associated with better cognitive function, while a diet high in saturated fat and simple carbohydrates is associated with memory problems.

Eating fish is recommended, at least once a week: mackerel, salmon, sardines, etc. Prefer oily fish that are rich in omega-3, EPA and DHA. A high level of EPA reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and depression. DHA is a main lipid component of neurons. Fish also contains selenium, which helps keep gray cells in good shape. Multiply the effects by respecting the quantity of your portions and maintaining the balance of nutrients on your plate.

Mistake #3: Isolation and loneliness.

Being isolated from others can have a negative impact on mental health. Studies have shown that loneliness and social isolation can lead to cognitive decline and even dementia. Additionally, humans are social creatures, and maintaining close personal relationships is important for mental well-being. It is therefore essential that you make the effort to get in touch with other people on a regular basis.

There are many ways to do this, including joining a club or organization, attending social events, or simply spending time with family and friends. By taking steps to stay in touch with others, you can help keep your mind healthy and prevent the onset of mental illness.

Mistake #4: Leading a sedentary lifestyle.

Most of us know that exercise is good for our physical health. But did you know that it is also beneficial for your brain? Exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain and promotes the growth of new brain cells. A sedentary lifestyle, on the other hand, has been associated with cognitive decline. Therefore, if you want to keep your mind sharp and your brain healthy, it’s important to get moving! Even moderate activity can positively impact brain anatomy and nervous system function. Take a walk, take a yoga class, or simply get up and stretch every couple of hours.

On the one hand, according to the results of a study published in December 2021 in Aging, instead of embarking on a single activity head on, varying the activities would reduce the risk of dementia. From physical exercises to cooking, through dance lessons, to gardening, the choice is immense.

Mistake 5: Not challenging your mind.

Mental stimulation is key to keeping your mind sharp as you age. Challenging your brain through activities such as reading, puzzles, learning, and harnessing new resources will help keep your mind active and healthy.

Activities that help you expand your knowledge and relationships are also a good way to learn new things. Therefore, do several activities to reduce the risk of cognitive declines, especially if you are already in your 60s.

Conclusion :

We tend to mistakenly think that the main factor influencing our cognitive health is aging. However, the choice of daily activities and our diet can also impact cognitive abilities, as they are also responsible for our well-being. Taking care of your health also means taking care of your brain.