It’s been said that we only use 10% of the capacity of our brain. This is however just a myth. Don’t despair! Even though increasing your mental performance might be slightly challenging, strengthening your cognitive health can be an easier task. There are several ways you can do this.
Stay young and sharp
The brain is like a muscle that needs to work continuously to maintain its abilities. Develop your curiosity, give yourself the opportunity to learn new things and make discoveries. Also opt for memory and thinking exercises such as crosswords, chess games or sudokus. Even a strategy-based board game can help keep your mind sharp and astute. The stimulation of neurons may help promote their renewal, allowing your brain to stay healthy.
Eat well, think better
The brain has high nutrient requirements. Including fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants in your daily diet can help protect your neurons. Many studies have also shown that a regular consumption of omega 3, an essential fatty acid found in oily fish, helps maintain brain health. Vitamin B12 also supports the proper functioning of the brain. It can be found in dairy products and eggs for example. Incorporating beneficial nutrients into your daily diet is all around a must, from your head to your toes.
Get moving
As hard as it is to keep active, it’s highly recommended to keep not only your body healthy but your mind also. Physical exercise stimulates blood circulation and therefore oxygenation of the brain. A recent study has shown that athletes are able to concentrate more because of their active lifestyles. Don’t panic, staying active doesn’t have to mean going to the gym every day. Even an outdoor activity can do the trick. Staying connected with nature helps soothe the brain when it is stressed or overworked and thus boost its skills.
A restful sleep
Sleep is essential to the body, including the brain. This is the moment when waste and toxins accumulated during the day are eliminated. Sleeping also allows the brain to better assimilate the information of the day and sort them out. The duration and quality of sleep influence not only your memory and concentration but also your mood. If your nights are too short, do not hesitate to take a nap.
Supplement your brain
As an added bonus to the daily measures you take to stay sharp and alert, you can also take a high-quality supplement made from proven ingredients. Clear BrainTM combines walnut extract with extracts from ginkgo, green tea and a complex of B vitamins that all work to support brain health by helping enhance cognitive and memory performance.
With age, your brain functions change, and your mental performance can be affected. You don’t, however, have to give up. Maintain your brain health and cognitive strength with the right approach and stay as sharp as a blade.
By Jennifer Soueida, B.Sc.
