It’s important to look after your brain whatever age you are. Doing so throughout your life helps to slow down the natural decline in memory and cognitive functioning as you age. It can also help to fight off neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s, reducing your chances of developing these conditions and also slowing the progression of symptoms if you do have them.

Here are a few simple ways to look after your brain and keep it healthy.

Stay active

Exercise is good for the entire body, including the brain. Cardiovascular exercise raises your heart rate, increasing the amount of blood flowing to the brain. Even walking on a regular basis can see great benefits for your brain health.

Challenge your mind

You should give your brain a workout as well as your body. Engaging and challenging your mind helps to strengthen your neural pathways, keeping your mind sharp. Reading, doing puzzles, learning a language, or playing strategic games are all great ways to keep your mind active.

Socialize

Socializing is another way to keep your brain active. Engaging in interesting conversations is a great activity for your brain. And staying social also benefits your mental health, keeping your mind healthy in more ways than one. Those with depression often see a decline in their memory, so you should look after your mental health to keep your brain healthy.

Quit harmful habits

Smoking and drinking heavily both contribute to cognitive decline. If you smoke, then quitting now can have great benefits for your brain health in the years to come. It’s not too late to reverse some of the negative effects of smoking. Limiting your alcohol intake can also benefit your brain health.

Brain foods

What you eat can also help your brain stay young and healthy. Fruit and vegetables provide lots of useful nutrients for your brain, while nuts and fatty fish are also recommended. Try to reduce the amount of processed food you eat as well as foods that are high in sugar. The Mediterranean Diet is often recommended for people looking after their brain health.

Sleep well

Rest is just as important as exercise and activity for your brain. You’ve probably noticed that you have difficulty concentrating the next day if you’ve had a bad night’s sleep. This is because your brain needs that rest period to consolidate memories from the day before and strengthen neural pathways. Prioritize a good night’s sleep to keep your brain in good condition.

If you want more advice on looking after your brain, preventing or treating Alzheimer’s, or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, then contact Bermuda Village for our support and care facilities in Bermuda Run, NC.