Just like heart health, brain health is a key component of healthy aging. Maintaining brain health as we age is crucial for overall well-being and cognitive function. Luckily, there’s easy habits that you can implement to help improve cognitive function. Discover five effective ways to support brain health!
Stay Mentally Active: Engage in activities that stimulate your brain. You can do so through puzzles, crosswords, learning a new language or instrument, or reading. Challenging your brain can help maintain cognitive function and even build new neural connections!
- Regular Physical Exercise: Physical activity not only benefits your body, but also your brain! Regular exercises is proven to improve blood flow to the brain, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and promote the growth of new brain cells. Aim for just 20 minutes of low to moderate activity per day. Some ways to do so are through walking, swimming, or yoga.
- Prioritize a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for brain health. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals. As well, food rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins E,C, and B are particularly beneficial for brain health! Finally, try to minimize the consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive alcohol. All of these can have a detrimental effect on cognitive function over time.
- Restful Sleep: Did you know that lack of sleep can impar not only cognitive function, but also memory and concentration? Getting plenty of restful, quality sleep allows your brain to rest and recharge. Most people need 7-9 hours of sleep per night, but some may need more. To prioritize restful sleep, try creating a relaxing bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed to ensure your sleep environment is conducive to rest.
- Stay Connected: Maintaining social connections and engaging in meaningful relationships can have a positive impact on brain health. Social interaction stimulates the brain, reduces stress, and may even low the risk of cognitive decline. To stay connected, prioritize socializing amongst friends, family, and community groups.
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can support brain health and maintain cognitive function as you age! Remember that consistency is key, so make these practices a prioritize every day to best incorporate them into your life.