How to keep your brain healthy

HOW TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN HEALTHY

 by Marion McConnell

 

Would you like to improve your memory, concentration and reduce your risk of degenerative brain conditions such as Alzheimer’s?  Would you like to ensure your children’s brains have the necessary conditions to develop optimally and reduce their risk of learning disorders, depression and anxiety?

 

Here are some simple ways you can improve your brain health each day:

 

 

Exercise your brain – use it or lose it!  This can include reading, puzzles, learning something new, writing.  Physical activity improves the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the brain, and also stimulates the release of feel good hormones to improve mental health.

 

Rest your brain – your brain also needs sufficient sleep and relaxation to maintain health.  Aim to get 6-8 hours sleep per night and use meditation or mindfulness to calm the mind.

 

Feed your brain – with a variety of whole foods, vegetables, quality protein and healthy unrefined cold pressed oils.  Include colourful vegetables, berries, organic free range eggs, salmon, sardines, pasture fed meat, extra virgin organic coconut oil, organic butter, extra virgin cold pressed olive oil, raw nuts and seeds, avocado, cacao, organic turmeric, ginger, rosemary and cinnamon.  Healthy fats are essential to brain health, as your brain is primarily composed of fats!

 

Protect your brain – reduce exposure to neurotoxins as much as possible:

• Use the loudspeaker or a hands free kit when using your mobile phone
• Heat and cook foods using the stove or oven instead of a microwave
• Avoid processed, pre packaged foods which contain trans fats, artificial additives and colours
• Avoid ‘diet’ and other products which contain aspartame, equal and splenda
• Use personal care, cosmetics and cleaning products which are made from natural ingredients
• Choose organic whenever possible to reduce your exposure to pesticides
• Avoid fluoride which is found in tap water and oral care products
• Use glass containers over plastic, and stainless steel or ceramic over non-stick cookware

 

Hydrate your brain – Adequate clean water is essential for your brain to function optimally, and long term dehydration can have a serious negative impact on brain cells.  Increase your consumption of foods with a high water content, such as vegetables, fruits and soups.

 

Boost your brain – with herbs such as Ginkgo, Bacopa, Withania, Tulsi and Green Tea.