6 Helpful Tips for Improving Brain Health

By Chris Hohol, Director of Operations, Senescence Life Sciences

Check out our 6 tips to assist you on your journey to better brain health in the new year. 

1. Regular Exercise

Regular exercise, especially aerobic exercise, is beneficial for the brain and can increase memory and learning. This is not only due to the physical benefits, such as increased blood flow to the brain, but also the mental aspects, such as improved mood and reduced anxiety.

Incorporate exercise into your daily routine and set realistic short term and long term goals. If you need a little motivation, finding a workout partner or joining a fitness club can help. If you need a little extra push, hiring a personal trainer or paying for a gym membership can provide an extra financial incentive to get up off the couch!

2. Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is also important for brain health. Foods high in processed sugars, such as condiments, some cereals, canned goods and other processed foods should be limited. Similarly, foods high in saturated fats such as red meats, poultry skin, butter and palm oil should be consumed in moderation. Processed sugars and high levels of saturated fats have been linked to cognitive impairment and can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression and memory loss.

Consider replacing processed foods with fresh alternatives that are low in saturated fats and have no added sugar. Blueberries, pomegranates, avocados, leafy green vegetables, broccoli, salmon, whole grains, and nuts are some healthy choices that are great for your brain! If you are craving a treat, try a little bit of dark chocolate as it contains antioxidants.

3. Quitting Smoking

Smoking can cause long term damage to the brain by impeding blood flow and negatively impacting memory and learning. Quitting smoking is no easy feat and takes a proactive approach with a lot of willpower.

There is good news, however! Embracing some of the other tips in this article, such as regular exercise, proper diet and getting enough sleep, can help to alleviate the stress and anxiety that smoking may initially cause.

Remember that it is never too late to quit!

4. Adequate Sleep

Getting a proper night’s sleep is crucial in allowing your brain to recharge after a long day. Not only does the brain repair damage and remove toxins during sleep but sleep can also improve mood, memory and overall mental function.

In order to achieve a good night’s rest, plan to go to bed at the same time every day and aim to get 6 to 8 hours of sleep. Light activities such as reading a book with some non-caffeinated tea are excellent ways to prepare your brain for bed, whereas watching TV, using your phone and/or having sugary beverages and food should be avoided.          

5. Social Engagement

Staying in touch and participating in activities with friends and family are an excellent way to keep your brain sharp and encourage creativity. Interacting with others can also help reduce the risk of depression as well as stimulate our brains which enhances memory and learning.

If you’ve found yourself drifting away from social activities, now is an excellent time of year to start again! Consider planning regular gatherings with others or even joining a social club or volunteering. Sports are ideal as they not only encourage social interaction, but are a fun way to incorporate exercise into your lifestyle.

6. Brain Supplements

We at Senescence believe in taking a holistic approach in caring for our brains, but sometimes we might need an extra boost in optimizing and supporting healthy brain function.

REVIVE™ and EDGE™ brain supplements contain advanced, synergistic formulations designed to work alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise, as part of a holistic approach towards achieving your peak brain health.

 

 

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