Maintaining good brain health over time often involves adopting good daily habits. In an article published on December 16 in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, experts provide questions to ask yourself every day. So they listed 8. Here they are:
1. Is my sleep sufficiently restorative?
Sleeping well allows the elimination of toxic waste accumulated during the day, the consolidation of memory, the regeneration of brain cells, etc.
2. Am I anxious, stressed?
Chronic stress can indeed damage brain cells. Anxiety and depression affect brain plasticity and can impair memory and concentration.
3. Is my diet balanced?
A healthy diet provides essential nutrients for brain function, protects against inflammation and supports the production of neurotransmitters. The complete opposite of an unbalanced diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed foods.
4. Am I getting enough exercise?
Moving increases cerebral oxygenation, improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. Recommendations? At least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, 5 times per week. And do muscle strengthening, flexibility and balance activities at least twice a week.
5. Do I have enough social connections?
Meet friends, chat… Social relationships reduce stress and isolation, maintain cognitive functions and protect against depression.
6. Am I sufficiently protected against trauma?
Yes, not wearing a helmet when cycling, for example, exposes you to brain damage in the event of an impact or fall. Protecting yourself well also reduces the risk of cognitive disorders.
7. Am I sure of the health of my heart?
A healthy heart is a healthy brain. Monitoring and having your blood pressure regularly monitored helps maintain good cerebral circulation and reduces the risk of stroke and vascular dementia.
8. Do you smoke? Do you drink?
The risk of developing Alzheimer's disease is 40% higher among heavy smokers (more than one pack of cigarettes per day) and 50% among heavy drinkers (more than four glasses of wine per day). And if the two combine, the risks multiply.
Each of these factors plays a specific role in maintaining good brain health. If you have any doubts regarding any of these questions, do not hesitate to discuss the subject with your doctor. He will be able to direct you towards appropriate care.
