The World Federation of Neurology established ‘World Brain Day’. This society was founded on the 22nd of July 1957 in Belgium and is now one of the most prominent promoters of Neurology and brain health research in the world. World Brain Day is celebrated in over 40 countries and various activities are undertaken, including online campaigns, seminars, education drives, charity walks, donation drives, etc. In an interaction with OnlyMyHealth, Dr Ashok Hande, Consultant-Neuro & Spine Surgery, Hiranandani Hospital Vashi – A Fortis Network Hospital, explained the importance of World Brain Day and shared some tips for brain health.
Why is World Brain Day Important?
The nervous system is the most intriguing part of the human body. In the last few decades, there have been so many breakthroughs in neurosciences that have helped us understand some of the complexities of the human brain.
With ever increasing incidence of Brain Stroke, there has been an exponential rise in healthcare expenditure at both local and national levels.
Many diseases and medical conditions are directly related to neurological issues, and basic measures of neurological safety must be adopted, to fully combat these issues.
Also read: Nooceptin Review: Effective Brain Boosting Nootropic Pills or Cheap Scam?
Tips That Will Help You To Have A Healthy Brain
Maintaining good brain health is essential for overall well-being and cognitive function. Here are ten tips to help keep your brain in top shape:
Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise not only benefits your body but also stimulates blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of new brain cells and enhancing cognitive function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Adopt a Brain-Boosting Diet
Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish), and lean proteins. These nutrients provide essential vitamins and antioxidants that support brain health.
Get Sufficient Sleep
“Aim 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. During sleep, your brain consolidates memories and removes toxins, promoting optimal cognitive function and emotional well-being”, said Dr Hande.
Engage in Mental Stimulation
Keep your brain active and challenged by engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzles, games, reading, learning a new skill, or taking up a hobby that requires problem-solving.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can negatively impact brain health. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature to promote relaxation and mental clarity.
Socialise and Stay Connected
Maintaining social connections and engaging in meaningful conversations can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Stay connected with friends, family, and your community.
Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can have detrimental effects on brain health. Moderation or abstinence from these substances is crucial for maintaining optimal brain function.
Also read: Brain Fogginess: Causes And How To Deal With It
Manage Chronic Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol can impact brain health. Work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively and reduce their impact on your brain.
Engage in Brain-Training Activities
Consider using brain-training apps or exercises specifically designed to improve cognitive abilities, memory, and focus. While the evidence on their efficacy is mixed, they can be beneficial as part of an overall brain-healthy lifestyle.
Remember that maintaining brain health is a lifelong commitment. Implementing these tips in your daily routine can help you enjoy better cognitive function, improved memory, and overall well-being throughout your life. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and recommendations.
Avoiding screen time two hours prior to bedtime/sleep. Screen time can interfere with everything from sleep to efficiency and creativity. Blue light-emitting screen devices like smartphones before bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns by suppressing secretion of the hormone Melatonin, which is required for a sound sleep.
Online education and various digital media distractions, particularly the online games have become a real point of concern. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, screen time should be avoided for kids under age 2 and older children should be allowed a maximum of 2 hours of screen time a day. If one follows a healthy lifestyle by implementing the above, then they can have a healthy brain.
