It is hard to believe sometimes that our knowledge of how the brain works is still very much a developing science. In fact, many things that we believed just a few short years ago have already been disproven and replaced with more accurate knowledge.
For instance, several years ago many doctors still thought that your brain ceased creating new neural connections very early into your life. They thought that when your body stopped developing in your early twenties, your brain did as well. This would mean that from that point forward, your memory would get worse, your brain would weaken, and you would lose some level of brain function as you get older. This turned out to not be the case at all, thankfully.
Brain regeneration
Over the last couple of years, it has become increasingly known that our brains create new neurons (or connections) not only well into our twenties but even as we go into our elder years. What’s more is that we have learned that we can have an active part in continuing to help our brains develop as we get older. Our part is actually very simple if we keep on learning and using our brain, we can rebuild old neurons and create new connections that keep our brains sharp and ready for action.
Increase your brain health
Many people have noticed through their own experiences that the more that they use their brains, the better their brains seem to function. That is one reason why we have store shelves packed with games and software that help you to exercise your brain. That is also a good reason why more people have tried to learn new things, try new activities, or actively engage themselves in reading and learning.
Now, it is hard to tell exactly how much any given activity will help your brain to stay sharp and rebuild itself as you age, so it is extremely difficult to say which method is the best. However, there are a number of proven, concrete tips that can certainly help your brain to stay young, even as the rest of you continues to age.
Incorporate some of the following hints and tips in order to help yourself along the road to increased brain health.
1. Healthy diet
Second, make sure to have a healthy diet. This may sound very simple, but you would be surprised at how many people do not get the proper vitamins to support healthy brain functions. You need vitamins such as vitamin B6, B12, E and others in order to be at your best. B6 can be found in beef or tuna, while B12 is more consistently found in berries, citrus fruits or leafy greens that you would put in your salad. Vitamin E is abundant in nuts or even in sunflower seeds. While you are at it, try to have one aspirin pill each day, as doing so can help you to avoid what are known as “ministrokes.” They also will help to reduce protein buildups in the brain which can harm the neurons there that you need for brain functions.
2. Use your brain
Finally, do not forget to use your brain! Sure, that sounds obvious, but we all know how easy it is to just veg out in front of the television after a long day at work. That may be okay now and then, but you should also involve yourself in brain-flexing activities such as music, art, or recalling information. In that way, everything from debating sports with your friends to writing down memories in a journal can help to exercise your brain. Reading is a great activity to exercise your brain with, too. Logic puzzles, crosswords, and other endeavors can be mixed in as well. The trick is to find what you enjoy and take part in it.
Since we know our brains can rebuild themselves as long as we live, it makes sense to keep them healthy. These tips and techniques can get you on the right track if you incorporate them into your daily life.
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| The information presented is not intended to, and does not in anyway, constitute or replace a medical advice, and it should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem. The information is provided for educational purposes only, and is based upon the authors’ personal experiences or point of view. If you think you have a health problem, please consult a qualified medical professional.. |
