As June is Brain and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, NeuroscienceNews.com has published a study conducted by the University of Kentucky, on the importance of diet, exercising and social engagement for reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
While some of the more serious diseases may be triggered by other causes, cognitive decline can occur due to bad physical, mental and social conditions. The good news is that this means we can prevent cognitive impairment by constantly taking better care of ourselves.
How can we take care of our brain health?
In general, having a regular workout schedule, a balanced diet and a healthy weight can not only do wonders for the health of our heart, but also of our brain. However, the key is sticking to a sustainable routine, that makes it easy for you to maintain it for as long as possible in order to enjoy the benefits.
A good practice is to try to incorporate as much movement into your daily schedule as possible. Whether it’s walking, gardening or more intense activities, like jogging, physical exercise is essential. Furthermore, you can include your family and friends in these activities, which will provide you with even more cognitive benefits in the long term.
According to the study performed by the University of Kentucky, “people of all ages, particularly seniors, benefit from leaving the house, engaging in learning activities and having an active social life. It is important to commit to a schedule that encourages all of these healthy brain aging activities.”
As far as your diet is concerned, you should always go by the basic principles of a healthy and nutritious eating style. Eat fresh produce, as often as possible, focusing to incorporate a high quantity of vegetables, legumes and fruits. At the same time, when it comes to your diet, moderation is key.
Exercising your brain is also very important for preventing cognitive decline. The so-called “neurobics”, or “aerobics for the brain” can include changing the route you take to get to work, driving to new places or shopping in a different supermarket than usual. According to NeuroscienceNews.com, “these simple activities activate the problem-solving areas of the brain as the person navigates unfamiliar territory.”
