What if there was a way, simply put, to live a better life? While there are many different ways for people to improve in different areas of their lives, brain health is something that all of us can work on. 

Brain health is an emerging focus of study. The World Health Organization defines it as “an emerging and growing concept that encompasses neural development, plasticity [the ability of neural networks in the brain to change through growth and reorganization], functioning, and recovery across the life course.”

A slightly different definition can be found on The BMJ, which defines brain health as “the preservation of optimal brain integrity and mental and cognitive function at a given age in the absence of overt brain diseases that affect normal brain function.” 

With numerous definitions, brain health can be difficult to perfectly describe. In general, brain health covers the functioning of the brain and all the things that are affected by it. Either way, though, it is vital to all people and their health. 

As humans grow older, their brains do, too, and there are multiple diseases linked to the brain and disruptions in brain growth. Some of the diseases include intellectual developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, dementia, cerebrovascular disease, headache, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, neuroinfections, brain tumors, traumatic injury, and neurological disorders.

While some of these might be genetic or unpreventable, it is important to take the health of the brain seriously, especially if it can possibly avert future problems. There are many different ways that people can take care of their brain, but here are 10 simple things that people can follow to improve their brain health.

Physical Activity

Exercise has many benefits already, but it is also a great way to improve brain health. Research shows that physically active people are less likely to have mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease. It is believed this happens because of increased blood flow to the brain during exercise. Also, regular endurance exercises can cause new brain cell growth and preserve existing cells.

Food

Another important part of brain health is what people put into their bodies. People who eat a balanced diet have a lower risk of cognitive decline. A Mediterranean-style diet is also a known diet to help reduce risks of Alzheimer’s disease. The diet includes daily consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and it includes weekly consumption of fish, poultry, beans, and eggs. With the diet, there is a limited intake of red meat and moderate amounts of dairy. More research is needed to identify the exact parts of the diet that most benefit the brain, but omega fatty acids definitely have positive effects.

Sleep

Sleep is vital to overall health, but it is shown to specifically affect the brain. Consecutive sleep, around seven to eight hours, is important for the brain because it gives it time to consolidate and store memories. Some theories suggest that overall memory and brain health is promoted because sleep can clear abnormal proteins in the brain. Whether this is true or not, lack of sleep can cause problems with memory and thinking, so it is important to get enough sleep. 

Medical Health

It is obviously important for people to stay healthy, but on top of the regular risks with health problems, certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, are linked to brain decline. So, it is always good for people to take what they are prescribed and be conscientious about their conditions.

Mental Fitness

Since the brain is a muscle, it has to be used to stay strong. Therefore, mental stimulation can help improve brain functions and promote cell growth. Mental stimulation can come from a wide range of things. It can be taking classes or learning something new like an instrument. 

Social Interaction

Studies show that people who participate in social interaction have the slowest rate of mental decline. Social interaction can help prevent depression and stress, which both can contribute to memory loss. 

Protect Your Head

One of the easiest ways for people to promote good brain health is by protecting their heads since head injuries increase the risk of cognitive impairment. This can be done by doing things such as wearing a seatbelt and wearing a helmet when appropriate.

Mental Health

Like other medical conditions, it is important to also take care of mental health. Studies have linked a history of depression with a higher risk of cognitive decline.  

Challenge Yourself

It is always good to do challenging things, including things for the brain. Games, like puzzles, bridge, and more, could possibly have short and long-term positive effects on the brain.

Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

Smoking and tobacco can increase the risk of cognitive decline, and abusing alcohol is a risk factor for dementia. Avoiding both is another easy way to have better brain health. 

Whether people are able to do all or only some of these steps, brain health is continuing to grow. With more time and research, people will be able to live substantially better lives because they know the right steps to take.