Many organs play a significant role in our bodies, but they pale in comparison to the mighty brain. The primary reason is that the brain supports all functions of the body and works hard 24/7, even when you are asleep. The brain needs quite a lot of nutritional support to support its functions. Since it consumes energy, it requires care and maintenance.
There are several myths regarding how to maintain your brain health. An example is the use of prescription drugs, certain foods, or supplements only as a solution beyond nutrition.
The brain needs all-around care. Apart from facilitating the development of a healthy brain by providing the required nutrients, there are several other ways to improve brain function.
One potential way that crosses the mind to maintain the sharpness of the brain is by using Nootropics. They are Central nervous system stimulants thus helping people with better cognition and energy level.
For you to provide the brain with the exercise it needs, you need to engage every part of your brain – both hemispheres of the cerebrum. This can be achieved by learning, exploring, and practicing new things.
For you to provide the brain with the exercise it needs, you need to engage every part of your brain – both hemispheres of the cerebrum. This can be achieved by learning, exploring, and practicing new things.
Experts recommend limited use of gadgets such as phones and TV, to spend that time in more engaging activities. Activities that boost brain health include mindfulness or meditation, reading a novel, writing, playing/ learning a musical instrument, making art, socializing with friends, or spending time with your loved ones.
These types of activities improve our cognitive function. Here are some of the most effective habits that make you mentally sharp.
Physical exercise
Your physical health directly affects your mental wellness. Working out regularly improves your brain’s functions. It promotes mental clarity and supports memory. Additionally, experts say that people who exercise have greater brain volume.
Older people who do not exercise have cognitive problems compared to those who do. More neurons are generated in the hippocampus when you exercise. The hippocampus is very important because it’s that part of the brain that supports memory and learning.
It would be best if you created a workout routine sooner rather than later. This would lay a strong foundation for the development of healthy brain functions that would reduce the extent of cognitive decline as you grow older.
Eat healthy foods and use supplements
As mentioned earlier, the brain needs nutrients to fulfill its functions. The brain alone requires a significant amount – about 20 percent, of the body’s resources. Although its volume is small, it requires glucose way out of proportion to the rest of the body.
Experts recommend that you consume foods that improve specific mental tasks such as concentration, memory, and cognitive functions. Foods that boost brain health include;
- Coffee or Tea
- Fatty fish
- Blueberries
- Dark chocolate
- Turmeric
- Broccoli
- Oranges
- Pumpkinseeds
- Eggs
- Green, leafy vegetables
- Walnuts
It is also important to take vitamins and minerals. Taking minerals and vitamins is not only essential for your brain but also your overall health. Vitamin B12 supports the functions of the central nervous system, while vitamin D is linked with cognitive support. Minerals like iron are essential for the brain.
Some days can be quite slow, and many entrepreneurs and professionals occasionally use cognitive enhancers such as Modafinil to stay productive. In 2020, people tend to buy Modafinil online instead of spending more than 10 times the amount for over-the-counter Provigil.
Stay mentally active
A healthy brain needs exercise. Throughout your lifetime, you have adopted various habits that make you mentally sharp. From acquiring education to exploring brain games such as Sudoku and Scrabble, there are various ways to keep your brain active.
Staying mentally active is linked with cognitive health. Additionally, brain training or stimulating environments prevent or delay various illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease. It also helps in developing multitasking skills, especially in older people.
Get enough rest
The brain needs sleep to consolidate memory and learning. Since the brain consumes a lot of energy, it works better when more energy is available. Also, distractions are fewer when you are rested.
Some people may consider sleeping a waste of time. Nothing could be further from the truth. Sleep deprivation has adverse effects on the brain. It takes a toll on your cognitive health, causing low creative thinking, limited learning, and poorer attention. The more you avoid sleeping, the more sleep you accumulate. It would be best if you slept at least eight hours every day.
Meditate
Meditation has been used for centuries and has become a source of peace and calm for many people. Meditation offers a fascinating connection that can help you both neurologically and psychologically.
The fast-paced 21st century has embraced meditation, especially over the last decade. Meditation has been linked with relieving stress, improving concentration, and increasing brain plasticity.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 crisis and forthcoming recession demand that we stay strong both mentally and physically. The more healthy habits you have, the stronger you will be to face the coming challenges and the better off you will be afterward.
However, you don’t have to beat yourself up if you are unable to achieve all objectives every day. Even integrating a little effort goes a long way in improving your overall body function.
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