Brain health is so important. It keeps us on our toes and helps us preserve memories that are both necessary and meaningful.
Just like every part of our body, the brain can decline as we grow older. And if we don’t keep it active, our cognitive functions will diminish even faster.
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, so now is a great time to think of what we can be doing to keep our brains active. Here are a few tips for preserving memory and maintaining mental acuity.
8 Ways to Prevent Memory Loss
Stay Physically Active
Physical activity promotes blood flow throughout the body and that includes the brain. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends an exercise routine of at least 150 minutes a week including aerobic activity and weight training. However, even 10 minutes of movement a day will be beneficial.
Stay Mentally Active
Use it or lose it. Using your brain will keep it healthy and, fortunately, there are many things you can do to keep it in great shape. Brain boosting exercises include writing, reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing strategic games, and learning a musical instrument.
Socialize
Socialization is great for the brain. It minimizes stress and depression that can contribute to memory loss. Make a point to call or visit friends on a regular basis or join a social group to keep depression at bay.
Organize
Becoming organized will help you keep track of your tasks and belongings, but it also makes for terrific mental exercise. Use a planner to jot down tasks, events, and appointments. Keep to-do lists that remind you of what needs to be done. Say the items you are writing down out loud to cement them in your memory.
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep helps you consolidate memories so you are more likely to recall them. Seven to nine hours of sleep is recommended.
Manage Chronic Conditions
Stay on top of medications and treatments prescribed to you by your doctor for the management of chronic conditions like depression, high blood pressure and diabetes. The better your overall health is, the better your memory will be.
Eat Right
A healthy diet is vital to brain health. Make sure your meals contain plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and low fat proteins. Avoid alcohol, which can increase confusion and memory loss.
Take the Right Supplements
Supplements can be added to a diet that is optimized for brain health. There are plenty of supplements on the market that contain ingredients that are beneficial to cognitive function. Douglas Laboratories’ Brain Function capsules are recommended.
Douglas Laboratories is an innovative leader in the health industry. Their Brain Memory capsules are designed to produce acetylcholine that plays a vital role in keeping the brain sharp. They contain a synergistic combination of nutrients including choline, huperzine A, and acetyl-L-carnitine.
It’s never too early to start thinking about brain health. A healthy diet, the proper amount of physical and mental activity and good sleep habits will keep your memory sharp. What do you do to optimize your cognitive functions?
