Mental decline is one of the most significant issues that you may face as you age. With the probability brain-related disorders increasing, there's never been a better time to take care of your brain health. Although genetics play a part, there are many factors in your control to help you feel your sharpest and brightest. Start using these smart tips today to get the most out your brilliant mind!
1. Have a purpose for life:
Don’t just dream of retirement and settle to a life of ease. You might be thinking, why, isn’t that what everyone is aiming for? Perhaps, but research has shown that when you don’t actively have something to work on, you’re more susceptible to physical and mental decline. It doesn’t mean you need to be slaving away at the office for the rest of your days; it can be as simple as having a garden project you love working on, or perhaps even taking up a hobby that you had long forgotten about. Now that you have more time to yourself, you can focus on what you’d love to do, instead of doing what everyone thinks you should. When you have a sense of purpose, you’re more likely to take actions that keep you healthy and vibrant, such as being active daily and eating the foods that nourish your mind and body. By having a purpose, you’ll feel stronger, more alive and mentally focused! Ask yourself, what would you love to devote your life to?
2. Load up on brain-boosting foods:
If you’re here, you no doubt know the value of a healthy lifestyle. Did you know certain foods can take your brain health a step further? By regularly incorporating these in your diet, not only will you be promoting a healthy weight, a positive mood and outlook on life, but you’ll enjoy brain-boosting benefits too:
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Protein like eggs, chicken, meat and oily fish
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Berries like blueberries, blackberries and strawberries
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Dark leafy greens like kale and spinach
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Healthy fats like coconut oil, fish oil, walnuts, egg yolks
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Complex carbohydrates like brown rice and sweet potato
An important thing to remember is to have balanced, whole foods during the day. Balanced meals will allow you to manage your blood sugar and give you better sleep at night too. Instead of snacking on high carbohydrate foods like crackers and lollies, think of loading up on snacks that have protein and carbohydrates, and protein and fats. For example, you can have a protein shake with berries, or a protein shake and mixed nuts. Base your main meals around a serving of protein, slower-digesting carbohydrates and healthy fats (for example, a pan-seared salmon with asparagus and brown rice).
3. Remember to exercise your mind:
Aside from having a fulfilling life purpose, you can sharpen your wits by exercising not only your body but your mind too. It’s that old saying, use it or lose it! It’s never been more relevant, with the real dangers of mental decline in age.
Here are some ways you can keep your mind sharp:
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Learn something new
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Enjoy a puzzle or crossword
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Sign up to a new education class
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Play games with your family and friends
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Enjoy the wide variety of memory games we have today
4. Optimise your sleep:
Gone are the days where lack of sleep is a badge of honour. As we begin to understand rest in more detail, we know how important it is to make sure each night is the best it can be.
As you get older, sleep becomes lighter and more fragmented. This impaired sleep can cause all sorts of issues during the day, including grogginess and lack of focus. By prioritising your sleep, you’ll have an easy way to keep your mental health in tip-top shape. You want to be focusing on deep sleep, which is the most restorative. Aim to go to bed at the same time each night, and wake up at the same time every morning. Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening, and limit your consumption of water to ensure fewer trips to the bathroom. Take steps to manage your stress, and get some exercise in during the day, so you’re ready to slide into dreamland when the time comes.
5. Use these brain and memory supplements:
By harnessing the power of scientifically researched ingredients, you can enjoy extra protection for a healthy mind, along with your brain-boosting diet. With a careful combination of natural herbs, you’ll be able to find a wide range of mind supplements at Vitamin King. These ingredients are designed to help processes in your mind, where your diet is insufficient.
Product Recommendations:
- Attention by Faction Labs
- GinkgoForte by Blackmores
- Super Brahmi 6000 by Herbs of Gold
- Tyrosine Mood Food by Cabot Health