Preserving Your Brain Power into Old Age

As we get older, the pathways in our brain begin to lose their strength. Memories are associated with these pathways and its important to find ways to preserve them and their power. There are many exercises, both mental and physical to stimulate the brain and bring back some of its youth. There are also certain foods (both nutritious and delicious) that can help aid in conserving brain power.

Exercising

Physical exercise stimulates circulation in your body, therefore allowing more oxygen to reach your brain. By doing so, more nutrients are supplied to it. Going for a brisk walk in the morning, walking up and down the stairs or even bike riding are excellent ways to get the circulation of blood. Regular physical exercise can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and help you keep a healthy blood pressure level. Elevated levels of blood pressure are not good for the brain, as they can lead to a stroke. Keeping your heart rate up by exercising also reduces levels of stress and depression which can both be damaging to brain cells.

Powering the Mind

Mental exercises are extremely important. Try different word and number games that stimulate the pathways. Sudoku is a fantastic number game that will get you thinking and concentrating. Word games such as crosswords, which force you to remember random facts, and Scrabble are also fun and healthy. A unique way to preserve your brain power is to try doing routine things with your non dominant hand or foot. One example is brushing your teeth with your right hand, if you are left handed. It allows the brain to use pathways that are dormant because they aren’t used often. Try kicking a soccer ball with your non dominant foot.

Foods

Antioxidants are found in food that is full of nutrients and can prevent free radicals from damaging the body’s cells. This in turn can prevent heart disease and cancer, but the mind reaps benefits as well. Antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables with an abundance of color. Make it a daily routine to include carrots, red and yellow bell peppers and tomatoes in the salads you eat.   Berries such as blueberries and raspberries are full of antioxidants and can easily be tossed into morning cereals and smoothies.   Preserving your brain is the best way for your body and mind to stay fit. As we get older, there are simple strategies we can implement in to our everyday lifestyles to help keep ourselves young. Exercise, mind activities, and foods are essential to a healthy brain.