How to Keep Your Brain Young

Have you ever caught yourself saying, “…senior moments”? Well, I have. It is happening now more often L.  I recognize someone’s face but I am not able to remember their name. I forget where I left my keys or phone. Sometimes, I would look for my eyeglass only to find out that it is pinned on my blouse or I wear it on my hair.

People of all ages complain about these kinds of memory lapses which can escalate as our brains age.  Though memory lapses are a normal occurrence, we all have considerable control over our own brain aging and the memory slips that accompany it. 

Following are some ways to keep your brain young.  

Give time to exercise.
Not only is exercise good for your physical health, it also aids your mental health. According to a study conducted by scientists at the University of Illinois, brisk walkers have bigger and better functioning brains than those who don’t do any cardiovascular conditioning. Another study showed that walking briskly 90 minutes each week lowers the risk for developing dementia. Why is this so? During exercise, the heart pumps oxygen and nutrients to the brain. It is also during exercise that the body produces brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which stimulates better brain cell communication. 

Learn to handle stress.

No one can avoid stress; it is part of living.  The key here is to accept that stress is inevitable and that you should learn how to handle it well to prevent stress from causing a negative impact on your brain function and memory performance. Stressed people get distracted; they find it difficult to focus and learn new information.  There are several ways to handle stress. You can try getting a hobby to clear your mind from whatever it is that bothers you. Or you can do some relaxation exercises like tai chi, yoga, and meditation.

Have a balanced meal.

Obese people are prone to develop dementia. A diet that includes omega-3 fats from fish, nuts or flaxseed is important for a healthy brain. It is recommended that we have five daily servings of fresh fruits and vegetables to protect our brain cells from age-associated oxidative stress. For strong cognitive abilities, processed foods and refined sugars must be avoided.

Exercise your brain.

Keep learning new things. Read and engage in stimulating conversations. Take on the hobby of doing crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or any game that would make your brain work.  Computer games like IQ Boost and NeuroRacer help boost the health of our brains.

If your brain is really malfunctioning there are some strategies to help you remember. When you were introduced to someone, find something distinct in that person. It could be her subtle smile. Imagine her as the Mona Lisa and it will help you remember her name. If you keep forgetting where you put your keys or glasses, designate a place to where you will put these things. This place will then be your memory place.

Aging is inevitable and our brain is affected by it. However, there are several ways to prevent our brain from deterioration or deteriorating fast.