Tips for a Healthy Brain
Source: AARP.org | April 10, 2006
Follow these tips to help keep your brain—and your body—vibrant and healthy throughout your life…
Do:
- Exercise your body regularly and get involved in physically active leisure pursuits
- Keep your mind exercised! Engage in active learning throughout life and pursue new experiences
- Stay socially engaged with friends, family and community groups
- Maintain a positive attitude and a sense of control over your life
- Take steps to manage stress
- Eat a balanced diet , and focus on brain-healthy foods that are rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, and consider taking a multivitamin supplement that includes antioxidants and folate
- Mind your numbers : Lose any extra pounds, lower your cholesterol if it is high, and keep your blood glucose and blood pressure under control
- Get adequate sleep
- Get proper medical attention and treatment for any underlying health problems
Don't:
- Drink to excess, smoke, or use illicit drugs
- Ignore sudden changes in mental status (but don ' t be overly concerned about normal slips of memory like forgetting names or where you put the keys)
- Avoid going to the doctor if you notice changes in your physical or mental health
- Overlook the possibility of drug interactions that can affect mental functioning, especially if you are taking more than one prescription medication
- Become isolated in your home
- Think you ' re too old to take up something new!
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