Your brain works as your body’s powerhouse. It controls your actions, thoughts and many other functions that impact your wellness overall. It’s essential to keep your brain happy and healthy – especially if you want to avoid cognitive issues as you age. A few simple daily activities can help you stay sharp throughout your lifetime.
Here are five ways to ensure that your brain stays active.
1. Maintain Consistent Sleep
A quality sleep schedule can make a significant difference for your brain health. If you tend to sleep for only a few hours every night, your brain can’t heal and recover. Your mind has to work regularly – and it needs some rest so that it can work properly. Those who run on little to no sleep often experience impaired cognition, as well as a poor mood and low energy.
Here are a few ways to stick with a sleep schedule:
·   Sleep for at least seven to nine hours each night.
·   Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
·   Avoid phones and TVs before bed, as they can keep you awake.
You should regularly make time for sleep, even if you’re busy with work, school or other personal matters. Your brain needs rest to support you as you complete those tasks! If you ever need to stay up late, it’s best to set aside time for a nap the next day so that you can recharge.
2. Avoid Brain Injuries
These days, it’s become more and more clear how brain injuries can impact our health. Whether or not you play sports, you can harm yourself as an accident. A traumatic brain injury especially can create distinct health issues that you’ll have to deal with for a while. While around 75% are closed head injuries like concussions, it’s also possible to experience open wound injuries.
Either way, you should do what you can to protect yourself. Always wear a helmet and use a seatbelt when necessary. Choose steps with railings so that you can balance – or avoid staircases altogether. These measures should keep you and your brain safe. Advise your friends and family to do the same.
3. Stay Mentally Active
You should make sure that you’re mentally active. Even if you work for eight hours every day, it’s necessary to focus on your brain’s mental acuity. Many people tend to perform similar monotonous tasks that don’t exercise their minds. It’s fine to watch TV shows and play video games – but you should also leave room for mental activities so that you can stay sharp.
Try crosswords, Sudoku, cards, puzzles, books and more. You should avoid online games that claim to help with brain health. These more traditional activities are your best bet for actual results. You can also learn a language, play an instrument or write a story. These actions keep your brain effective as you age. Feel free to explore different activities for a little variety.
4. Consume Healthy Foods
There are many foods that you should incorporate into your diet if you want to support your brain. From fruits to vegetables to proteins, it’s possible to boost memory, concentration and other functions through diverse meals. You can’t rely on a single food as a remedy for brain issues, but you should eat a well-rounded diet to ensure that your brain has the means to operate correctly.
Most brainpower foods contain omega-3 fatty acids, alongside other nutrients and vitamins to support wellness. You should add these foods to your future meals for a balanced diet:
- Broccoli
- Fish
- Nuts
- Turmeric
- Berries
- Eggs
- Coffee
These options all feature elements that support brain health. While the occasional candy bar won’t necessarily harm your brain, it’s always best to balance treats with healthier foods. These choices can help your brain stay strong – especially since you’ll be able to protect your heart, too. Strive to make choices that positively influence your body.
5. Exercise More Often
You should keep up with a consistent exercise routine to keep your body healthy. Your brain works alongside your heart, so it’s also important to support your cardiovascular health. Your blood needs to be able to move throughout every vein and vessel for your brain to work properly. That’s why physical activity makes a difference. Those who neglect proper fitness often suffer from health issues later on.
Additionally, your brain releases more irisin when you exercise. This myokine could help you avoid Alzheimer’s disease as you age. Even a simple 30-minute daily walk can lead to a healthier heart and brain!
Use These Tricks to Maintain a Healthy Brain
It’s essential to make healthy choices for your brain throughout your life. Your brain impacts your everyday actions, so you should do all that you can to stay sharp. You can use these tricks to maintain a healthy mind over time.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
