We don’t usually think much about keeping our brains healthy. But studies show it’s just as important to take care of our brains as it is to look after our hearts.
Luckily, there are things we can do every day to help our brains stay sharp as we get older. Here are six simple habits you can easily add to your daily routine that are good for your aging brain as well as your body and gut health.
1. Make Exercise a Habit
We all know exercise is good for us, but it’s also a great way to keep your brain sharp! Studies show that people who are physically active are less likely to have problems with their memory and thinking as they get older, and they may even have a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Exercise also benefits your gut health. Studies show that lack of sleep and constant fatigue lead to having an unhealthy gut. It is also known that autoimmune conditions, food intolerances, skin irritation, and a high-sugar diet.
The benefits come from increased blood flow to your brain and gut during exercise. This helps to maintain healthy digestion and nutrient intake, which allows you to have increased blood flow to your brain.
Try to do some moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or playing tennis for 30 to 60 minutes several times a week. Choose activities that make your heart beat faster!
2. Need Plenty of Sleep
Getting enough sleep is super important for your brain health. When you sleep, your brain clears out harmful proteins and strengthens your memories. This helps keep your mind sharp! It also supports your gut health, as a lack of sleep can negatively affect your gut bacteria and lead to inflammation.
Aim for seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, not just short naps. Getting continuous sleep gives your brain (and gut) time to recover and work properly.
If you have trouble sleeping or suspect you might have a sleeping Disorder (a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep), talk to your doctor. Addressing a sleeping Disorder is crucial for both your brain and overall health.
3. Embrace the Mediterranean Diet
What you eat greatly affects your brain health. Consider adopting a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil. It includes less red meat and salt than a typical diet and promotes a thriving gut microbiome.
This diet is also beneficial for gut health as well as mental clarity and a sharp brain!
Research suggests that people who closely follow a Mediterranean diet are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. While we need more research to pinpoint exactly which parts of the diet are most helpful, we do know that the omega-3 fatty acids found in olive oil and other healthy fats are essential for your cells to function correctly, may lower your risk of heart disease, improve mental focus, and slow down cognitive decline. and are one of the best steps to create a healthy gut!
4. Manage Your Health Conditions and Medications Effectively
Chronic conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes can affect both your brain and body. To stay healthy, work closely with your doctor and follow their advice.
If you need medications for your condition, make sure to take them exactly as prescribed. This helps control the illness and prevents complications.
If you experience side effects or feel that your medication is no longer necessary, don’t stop taking it on your own. Always talk to your doctor before making any changes.
When adding new medications, vitamins, or supplements, consult your doctor or pharmacist. This ensures they don’t interfere with the medicines you’re already taking.
This version simplifies the original text while retaining all the important information. It emphasizes clear actions and precautions for managing chronic conditions and medications effectively.
5. Keep Your Brain Active by Learning New Things
Learning new activities is a great way to keep your brain healthy and strong. It helps create new pathways in your brain and even grows new brain cells.
Try something new like learning a language, playing a musical instrument, or taking up a hobby. These activities strengthen your brain connections and keep you mentally sharp.
Other fun ways to challenge your brain include reading, solving crosswords, or playing Sudoku. The key is to choose something you enjoy, so you’ll stick with it over time.
This version simplifies the original text while retaining all the important information. It emphasizes clear actions and benefits for keeping your brain active and healthy.
6. Stay Social and connect to Keep You Sharp
Spending time with friends and meeting new people is great for your brain. Studies show that strong social connections can improve brain health, reduce depression, lower the risk of dementia, and even help you live longer.
You can stay in touch in many ways—meet in person, call or video chat, or connect online through email and social media. If someone has health concerns, take precautions when meeting face-to-face.
Get involved in your community by volunteering, joining clubs, or scheduling regular meet-ups with others. Activities you enjoy will make it easier to stay socially active over time.
This version simplifies the original text while keeping the key points clear and actionable. It emphasizes the importance of social connections for brain health and offers practical ways to stay engaged.
Take care of your brain with these easy tips. Start your day feeling refreshed, enjoy a nutritious breakfast, and take your medications as prescribed. Stay active by attending a yoga class, and nurture your social life by having lunch with friends. Later, try something new, like joining that gardening class you’ve been thinking about.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure it’s safe for you, enjoyable, and approved by your doctor. Stay connected with others, have fun, and focus on living your best life.
For more tips on staying healthy as you age, check out the “Age” section of our Be Well blog.
This version uses simple language while maintaining the original meaning. It emphasizes actionable steps and encourages readers to live a fulfilling and healthy life.
