Boost Your Brain Power

The brain serves many important functions, such as memory, language, calculation, arithmetic, judgment and reasoning, music and artistic skills and so on. Therefore, the brain is, undoubtedly, the most important organ of the body. It is the brain that differentiates human beings from animals, makes them superior and most powerful of all. Also, among human beings, people with superior brains perform better and excel in their lives. So, it would be most useful to boost brain power, if possible. Here, we discuss simple methods that can help improve brain power.

Unchangeable Factors

Genes
Many brain functions such as memory and intelligence depend on genes of parents that are passed on to children. Obviously, these cannot be changed. So, parents with superior brains are likely to have children with superior brains, with better memory and intelligence.

Age
Most brain functions deteriorate with age. Therefore, one should try to do most of the things at an earlier age, taking advantage of the best condition of the brain. However, with more experience and at an older age, certain tasks can be done better.

Modifiable Factors

Brain Workouts
It is important to keep the brain engaged in some fruitful activities, as much as possible. Activities such as crossword puzzles and Sudoku are very important ways to boost brain power. Also, learning a new hobby at a later age would improve brain power. One can even learn to play a musical instrument or a new game in their 40s or 50s. Creative work such as writing, reading, painting or playing instruments are very healthy activities to boost brain function. On the other hand, watching TV, sitting idle. etc. are not good for the brain.

Foods That Boost Brain Power

Wholegrains – The brain needs energy in the form of glucose to function and this is provided by wholegrains, such as wheat, brown pasta, etc. A steady supply of glucose improves concentration and focus.

Fish – Fish is a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids. Regular consumption of fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines decreases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss.

Tomatoes – These are rich in lycopene which is an antioxidant that protects from free radical damage, reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Blueberries – Regular consumption of blueberries has shown to improve or delay memory loss.

Pumpkin seeds – These seeds are rich in zinc, which can enhance memory and thinking skills.

Broccoli – This vegetable is rich in vitamin K which enhances cognitive skills and improves brainpower.

AmIa, Oranges And Ber – These fruits are rich in vitamin C, known to increase mental agility.

Nuts, Green vegetables, Olives – Rich in vitamin E, these foods can prevent cognitive decline, especially in the elderly.

Vitamin B Supplements Such As Folic Acid, B 12 And Pyridoxine – They reduce the levels of serum homocysteine. High homocysteine levels may increase the risk of brain strokes, so regular intake of B vitamins may reduce the risk of brain strokes (an important cause of cognitive decline).

Exercises improve the brain’s ability to repair any damage, or prevent cognitive decline

Other Methods To Increase Brainpower

Meditation – The brain is constantly working. So, meditation where the brain can be trained to be completely at rest is very important, as ¡t can recharge the brain and make it ready for other challenges.

Yoga – Practicing yoga regularly can also help improve brainpower.

Changing Routine – Doing the same things daily, day after day. makes our life easy. However, challenging the brain by changing the routine, such as taking a new route to office, taking public transport, using the left hand for brushing. etc. really helps the brain get sharper.

Becoming Social – Mixing with friends and society is good for the brain, rather than being aloof and lonely.

Outdoor Activities – Activities like camping. picnics, trekking etc. are fun as well as helpful for improving brain power.

Physical Workouts

Physical exercises are not only useful for building muscle, but also to improve brain function. Aerobic exercises such as walking. running, swimming and cycling lead to release of feel good hormones such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These hormones act as antidepressants and also improve functioning of the hippocampus. Exercises also help the brain plasticity, which improves the brain’s ability to repair any damage, or prevent cognitive decline. New connections in the brain are more easily formed in people who exercise regularly. Though exercising for long will be beneficial, as little as even 20-30 minutes of aerobic exercises may prevent or delay cognitive decline.