TAKE CARE OF YOUR BRAIN
Most people believe that once they reach mid-life the quality of life generally declines from there on. The bad news is that statistics tend to indicate this to be true in our culture, as two thirds of the population experience some form of mental decline after the age of forty. Over twelve percent of the population reaching the age of 65 can expect to develop Alzheimer’s disease. That’s right! Approximately one person in every eight will suffer from Alzheimer’s.
The GOOD NEWS is that YOU don’t have to become one of the statistics. You don’t have to allow your brain to severely deteriorate with age. There are preventive measures that can be taken to protect your brain and increase your mental clarity; improve your memory and aid you in being able to maintain your focus. In order to accomplish this you will need to begin to pay attention and take action NOW!
Ø Feed your body fuel that will protect your brain and help your brain function at its peak ability. Being sure that you feed your body high quality anti-oxidants will fend off free radicals in the brain and decrease inflammation. Inflammation has been shown to greatly increase the progression of dementia as well as cause severe health problems for other systems in the body. There is no better anti-inflammatory than the betalains found in the fruit of the nopal cactus. Click here to find more information about betalains: BETALAINS and MORE BETALAINS
Ø Your diet needs to include adequate levels of Omega 3 fatty acid. Omega 3 is commonly found in oily fish and some forms of algae. Omega 3 is one of the best brain nutrients available and is very easy to supply to your body even if you don’t eat oily fish or algae. Here is an unsurpassed source of Omega 3 that will aid you in your quest for mental acuity: OMEGA 3
Ø The journal Neurology recently published a study that supports the link between B-12 and staying mentally sharp. The study concluded that people who get plenty of Vitamin B-12 have a significantly lower risk of developing a brain disorder that involves memory loss, confusion and other serious symptoms of mental decline. The researchers, from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, wrote a conclusion which stated that there is strong evidence supporting B-12’s role in helping to protect against memory loss. For more information on Vitamin B-12 deficiency and its detrimental effects on your health go to these sites: VITAMIN B-12 and THE IMPORTANCE OF B-12
Ø Be sure you are getting enough sleep. Your body needs at least 8 hours a day. Sleep aids the brain in consolidating and storing memories and experiences of the day. Your brain simply will not function at its peak level without the correct amount of rest. Getting adequate amounts of rest increases energy, reduces stress, improves memory, allows the brain to concentrate and focus, and provides much higher mental clarity. Before bed, do 20 minutes of deep breathing to improve the quality of sleep and greatly relieve stress levels. Check out this link for more information on the benefits of deep breathing: DEEP BREATHING
Ø Keep your brain active, challenge it with a wide variety of activities. Crossword puzzles and Sudoku are fine, but don’t limit your brain challenges to just these. Challenge your brain by learning something totally new like a foreign language, how to play a musical instrument or try your hand at a new business venture. Building a new business will challenge your brain in new ways daily and the rewards won’t be limited to a greater state of mental health.
Ø Exercise regularly. Consistently participating in some form of aerobic exercise improves brain functioning and improves synaptic activity. Brain function is improved by the increased oxygen intake and improved circulation of blood to the brain. Optimum brain function requires that you work out at least 3 to 4 days a week for a minimum of an hour. Your exercise period will result in immediate natural stress relief, enhanced mental clarity and an increase in your confidence level.
Ø Spend some time each day with GOD. Studying God’s word and meditating on what you’ve read will lower stress levels and anxiety. Giving you a much greater sense of wellbeing, which in and of itself results in a lower stress level. Stress and anxiety are major drains on brain function and contribute greatly to that “brain fog” sensation that comes with feeling overwhelmed. Studies by neuroscientists show that people who regularly meditate have significantly higher levels of gray matter in the right orbitofrontal cortex of the brain. This area of the brain is responsible for memory.
