When we think of aging, we tend to think of the physical body. While losing bone strength, muscle mass and digestive function isn't fun, to be sure, those aren't the only concerns with growing older. If you neglect your mind now, you may well find you miss it later on.
Luckily, there's no need to simply bow to your fate when you can instead take actionable steps to protect that brain box. Here are seven of the best to roll into your repertoire today.
Learning is one of the best ways to protect your brain, hands-down. When you force your minds to stretch through taking on mental challenges, you prevent the breakdown of neurons and maintain stronger mental faculties. The greater the challenge, the better, which is why many older people opt to learn new skills: photography, coding, another language, etc.
You don't necessarily have to learn brand-new skills in order to take advantage of this tactic.For instance, simply learning a few new words through crossword puzzles or stretching your sudoku skills can do a lot to keep your memory sharp.
Harvard Health recommends using all of your senses to protect the mind at any age. Listen to books on tape, use your sense of smell whenever possible and cultivate a wide diet to keep your palate sharp.
Getting enough sleep is strongly correlated with good memory and quick thinking. Try to get at least 8 hours … some people need more like 9. Practice good sleep hygiene, turning out the lights by 10 and keeping electronics out of the bedroom at night.
One of the best ways to prevent memory loss is to test that memory constantly, says Everyday Health. You can do this with games, poetry or even shopping lists. Memorize lines or items, then come back in an hour and see how many you can remember.
You already know that fruits, vegetables and whole grains are considered brain food. Now it's time to get more of them in your life. Add in nuts, fatty fish and lean proteins for extra brain protection.
Superficially, a physical condition such as knee pain might seem unrelated to the brain. However, if you take medications to help with symptoms of various conditions, you may unintentionally make your memory fuzzier.
If you want to avoid this, it's important to deal with conditions as soon as they arise. See a doctor, do your physical therapy and live the healthiest possible lifestyle.
Brain support products are one of the best and easiest ways to keep your neural sheaths intact and your synapses firing on all cylinders. The best kinds are those that contain powerful protective agents such as amino acids, B vitamins, rhodiola, and gingko.
This is a lot of tips, so don't feel the need to incorporate all of them today. Instead, choose one or two to put into your routine now, and slowly introduce the rest of them over time. As you do, you may notice your memory sharpening at any age. Get ready to enjoy a newer, sharper you.
