Most people know that healthy eating and regular exercise can lower their risk for many health problems such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer. But what most people don’t realize is that healthful living can help keep their brain young too.
You should take the phrase “use it or lose it” to heart when it comes to protecting your mind. Research shows that certain lifestyle choices and specific activities can enhance brain function as we age. Choose activities such as reading, writing, and playing instruments to keep your mind agile. It’s never too late to learn a new language or pick up a new hobby. Puzzles, crosswords, Suduko, and cards are all great activities to keep you sharp as you age.
Exercise offers tremendous benefits for both the body and mind. It helps with balance, coordination and weight management. It can lower your risk of suffering myriad health problems such as depression, osteoporosis, diabetes, and more. When you exercise, you are not only strengthening your body, you are strengthening your brain as well. Increased blood flow to the brain during exercise can lower your risk for strokes and dementia. Recent studies have actually found that the brains of people who exercise are larger than non-exercisers, and researchers believe brain shrinkage as we age is related to memory decline.
How else can you keep your mind sharp as you age? Making time for family and friends and staying socially engaged not only lowers the likelihood of depression (which the elderly are at higher risk for) but can also give your brain a boost.
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