Hi all! I know it’s been a few weeks since you’ve heard from
me, but I’ve been busy. Most recently, I was attending an advanced ‘Functional
Neurology’ course in Milwaukee, exercising my brain. That’s right, my brain! In
order for our brains to perform optimally, they require a regular fitness
program, just like the rest of our bodies. Our brains function most efficiently when
they are in a balanced state. This includes a balance between neurotransmitters
like Glutamate and GABA, balanced calcium ions and cellular stability. As we
age, some of our brains’ processes can become less active, resulting in loss of
memory function and mental disorganization. So, here are a few things we can do
to maintain optimal brain fitness:
1. EXERCISE. According to Harvard
Psychiatry Professor John Ratey, author of
Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and The Brain,
‘nothing beats exercise for promoting brain health’.
2. DIET and NUTRITION: James Joseph,
neuroscientist at the Agricultural Research Service writes: ‘vitamins and
minerals in plant foods provide protective antioxidants, but fruits vegetables,
nuts, seeds and grains contain thousands of other types of compounds that
contribute significantly to the overall dietary intake of antioxidants.’
Antioxidants help to provide energy for brain cell activity. And avoid smoking
and excessive alcohol intake, as toxins can build up and break down cellular
integrity.
3. KEEP YOUR MIND SHARP: Read, learn a new
language or learn to play a musical instrument. Increased focus can improve
brain fitness by promoting concentration, alertness and blood flow to the
brain.
So, when you’re thinking about your fitness, don’t forget
about your brain. After that 'Crossfit' workout, go home, eat a balanced meal, and read an article or a book. Start those piano lessons you've been thinking about. Learn a new song. Oh, and by the way, what goes for us, goes for our pets.
Make sure their diet is high in nutrient supply and they have plenty of clean water. Maintaining a strong, dependable and healthy brain will ensure years of
productivity and health! Have a comment? Join the conversation.
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