Tips For Healthy Brain

There is a lot we can do to keep our brains healthy and potentially prevent
or lessen the cognitive decline that often comes with aging.

The Alliance for Aging Research recommends these steps for improving
your brain health.

- Eat a Brain-Healthy Diet. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids
(commonly found in fish), protein, antioxidants, fruits and vegetables and
vitamin B; low in trans fats; and with an appropriate level of carbohydrates
will help keep your brain healthy.

- Stay Mentally Active. Activities such as learning a new skill or
language, working on crossword puzzles, taking classes, and learning how to
dance can help challenge and maintain your mental functioning.

- Exercise Regularly. Exercising often can increase circulation,
improve coordination, and help prevent conditions that increase the risk of
dementia such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

- Stay Social. Spending time with friends, volunteering, and traveling
can keep your mind active and healthy.

- Get Plenty of Sleep. Not getting enough sleep can have a negative
impact on brain health.

- Manage Stress. Participating in yoga, spending time with friends, or
doing other stress-relieving activities can help preserve your ability to
remember and learn.

- Prevent Brain Injury. Wearing protective head gear and seat belts
can help you avoid head injury, which has been associated with an increased
risk of dementia.

- Control Other Health Conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight,
exercising, eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet, and controlling
stress can help reduce your risk of diseases that affect your brain,
including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and hypertension.

- Avoid Unhealthy Habits. Smoking, heavy drinking and use of
recreational drugs can increase the risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

- Consider Your Genes. If your family history puts you at risk for
developing dementia, work with your doctor to find ways to maintain your
brain health to help avoid or slow the progression of cognitive decline.