Keeping the brain healthy as you age

Experts used to think brain development peaked in late adolescence and it was all downhill from there. They believed if a person lost brain cells due to problems like a head injury, stroke, or substance abuse, nothing could be done to restore memory and brain function.

Now, thanks to discoveries in neuroscience, we know that the brain can grow new cells and form new neural connections. Like our muscles and other body parts, the brain can rebuild itself through repeated use and exercise.

There are several key lifestyle changes you can make right now to influence the health of your brain for years to come. The lifestyle changes includes:

EXERCISE

Among other benefits, we know that exercise spurs the development of new nerve cells and increases the connections between brain cells (synapses).

DIET

A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like the Mediterranean Diet) and low in sugar promotes healthy brain function.

MEDITATION

Spending time in quiet focus on your breath and thought patterns has been shown to have a profound impact on brain health and emotional regulation.

SLEEP

Getting at least 7-9 hours per night of sleep helps preserve the brain function, an increase emotional wellbeing and keep the immune system strong.

Submitted by Karen Rehm, Wellness Services Manager, Nebraska Safety Council. To schedule a “Healthier & Happier You” presentation, contact Karen at 402-4832511 ext. 102 or send an email to Krehm@ nesafetycouncil.org.