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There is a lot we can
do to keep our brains healthy and
potentially prevent or lessen the
cognitive decline that often comes with
aging.
The
Alliance for Aging Research recommends
these 10 steps for improving your brain
health.
- Eat a
Brain-Healthy Diet.
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids
(commonly found in fish), protein,
antioxidants, fruits and vegetables
and vitamin B; low in trans fats; and
with an appropriate level of
carbohydrates will help keep your
brain healthy.
- Stay Mentally
Active.
Activities such as learning a new
skill or language, working on
crossword puzzles, taking classes, and
learning how to dance can help
challenge and maintain your mental
functioning.
- Exercise
Regularly.
Exercising often can increase
circulation, improve coordination, and
help prevent conditions that increase
the risk of dementia such as heart
disease, stroke and diabetes.
- Stay Social.
Spending time with friends,
volunteering, and traveling can keep
your mind active and healthy.
- Get Plenty of
Sleep. Not
getting enough sleep can have a
negative impact on brain health.
- Manage Stress.
Participating in yoga, spending time
with friends, or doing other
stress-relieving activities can help
preserve your ability to remember and
learn.
- Prevent Brain
Injury.
Wearing protective head gear and seat
belts can help you avoid head injury,
which has been associated with an
increased risk of dementia.
- Control Other
Health Conditions.
Maintaining a healthy weight,
exercising, eating a well-balanced and
nutritious diet, and controlling
stress can help reduce your risk of
diseases that affect your brain,
including diabetes, heart disease,
high blood pressure and hypertension.
- Avoid Unhealthy
Habits.
Smoking, heavy drinking and use of
recreational drugs can increase the
risk of dementia and cognitive
decline.
- Consider Your
Genes. If
your family history puts you at risk
for developing dementia, work with
your doctor to find ways to maintain
your brain health to help avoid or
slow the progression of cognitive
decline.
More information
The National Institute
on Aging has more about
forgetfulness. |
