Are you getting more forgetful? We all have occasional lapses, especially once we hit our forties. It might be alarming to you to have a “senior moment” now and then, but the good news is that research shows that by keeping your brain healthy with the right diet and “brain” exercise, you can keep your cognitive function strong – boosting your memory and brainpower.
Here are five things you can do to stay sharp:
Eat Fish. People who eat fish once a week have a 60% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (research by Martha Clare Morris, ScD.). The reason is DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in large quantities in the brain and in cold water species of fish, such as salmon, tuna, and cod. A weekly seafood-based meal may slow cognitive decline by 10% per year (the equivalent of turning back the clock 3 to 4 years).
Try Something New. Mental stimulation is good for the brain. As we grow older, we tend to engage in the same activities and behavior patterns. This is boring to the brain. When we mentally challenge ourselves on a regular basis, we can maintain good intellectual potential as well as reduce our risk for age-related memory loss. Give your mind a workout with fun brain games – like Sudoku.
Exercise. One important way to increase your brain health is through regular exercise. Cardiovascular activity will pump more oxygen-rich blood to the brain. With the blood comes nutrients such as glucose, which fuel every cell in the brain.
Embrace the Power of a Nap. We love this. Take a 20 minute nap during the day to give your brain a rest. It will help you with recall and improve your memory.