The human brain is certainly the most fascinating organ of the body – it simultaneously performs thousands of functions, running everything from your sex drive to the signals that you send to your muscles for movement.
You may think your brain is in good shape, but you can always improve its functioning. So, how can you increase your neurological capabilities? Read on to learn about brain food snacks and other useful tricks.
Table of Contents
Eat Brain Food Snacks
Diet can play a huge role in a healthy brain. Incorporate foods into your diet that are guaranteed to stimulate better brain function. These include:
- broccoli
- pumpkin seeds
- turmeric
- oranges
- dark chocolate
- eggs
If you have trouble transitioning to eating better, start small. Try eating a portion or two of brain food snacks daily, then increase your consumption. You will soon notice better cognitive functioning, among the many health and wellness benefits.
Make Exercise a Priority
Exercise produces endorphins, which can alleviate pain and promote well-being. It also majorly contributes to a healthy brain.
Many Americans don’t think they have time to exercise. Even squeezing in a few minutes every day will make a difference if you do it consistently enough.
For instance, try taking a walk for a few minutes after work or during your lunch break. Or, try to find a new hobby that involves working on your physical and mental health.
Challenge Your Brain
The key to keeping your brain sharp is ensuring that it stays active. The brain is like a muscle: the more you use it, the healthier it becomes. Leaving it idle with simple activities can lead to cognitive decline.
You can do puzzles like word searches or sudoku to push your brain. There are even cell phone applications and websites with programs dedicated to brain health at any age.
Get Some Shut-Eye
Don’t be tempted to skip a good night’s sleep and expect to have perfect neurological functioning. Your nerve cells need proper rest so they can communicate with each other effectively.
If you miss some sleep, you may notice that you have brain fog and can’t complete tasks as effectively. Studies have shown that 24 hours without sleep leaves you with the same mental functioning as a drunk driver.
Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
Although drugs and alcohol are fun for a bit, they can cause major neurological damage. After you come down from your high or sober up, you may notice temporary cognitive impairment, such as withdrawal.
However, these substances can also have disastrous long term effects. Not only will you struggle with the chance of relapse, chemical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms, but you can also suffer from memory impairment and loss of motor function.
Improve Your Neurological Functioning Today
You don’t have to wait for the perfect time to improve brain health. By starting now, you can avoid long-term neurological damage and keep your thinking sharp.
Want more tips for how to take your health and well-being to the next level? Take a look around our website. It has answers to all of your questions.
