Much like physical health, optimal brain health doesn’t happen without a little bit of work. Cognitive issues, ranging from dementia to brain fog, impact much of the population. There are plenty of simple measures you can take today to support your cognitive health and focus.
Exercise
As little as 15 to 30 minutes each day can do as much good for your brain as it does your body. A study conducted by Cambridge University Institute of Public Health suggests that getting one hour of exercise each week may support cognitive health.*
Don’t smoke
It’s common knowledge. There are absolutely no health benefits or advantages to smoking. Tobacco use poses risk to all of your organs, including your brain. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, quitting now can help support overall brain health.*
Watch what you eat
It’s a no-brainer: good diet may help support healthy cognitive function.* Consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, unsaturated oils, and plant sources of protein may support performance. It’s suggested to limit sugar and limit your alcohol consumption to two drinks per day.
Take ginkgo biloba
Along with eating well, it’s also ideal to incorporate a daily supplement containing ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo biloba has been known to improve brain, memory, and mental performance.*
Stimulate your mind
Games and puzzles are fun ways to keep your brain sharp, but if you really want to improve your cognitive function, consider picking up a new hobby or skill. Learning something new may support the growth of brain cells.*
Get good sleep
It’s no secret that sleep plays a major role in a healthy lifestyle, but even more so for maintaining a healthy brain. While you’re dreaming, your brain is at work. A study funded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is suggesting that during sleep, the brain may flush out toxins.*
It can be stressful to think about the changes your brain experiences as you age, but you’re not defenseless in the matter. Implementing brain health lifestyle changes, even just one at a time, can help support a healthy brain.