Increase Brain Power: Learn How to Keep Your Brain Young

Brain Power

It use to be believed that the brain developed only during our early days. Recent research shows new brain cells are added throughout our lives and we can help maintain a healthy brain by energizing it through exercise and food.

Brain cells have branch-like appendages called dendrites, which transmit impulses to nerve cells. When the brain is stimulated, even in old age, new dendrites are formed. More dendrites mean more brain power and better cognitive abilities.

To maintain a healthy brain, challenge it by using all parts of your brain. Unused parts of the brain will eventually stop working.

To increase brain power:

Use your nondominant hand when eating, brushing your teeth, or writing. This will increase the number of dendrites in the cerebral cortex.

Use your senses differently. Close your eyes when getting dressed. Turn the TV sound off and try to follow the plot. Hold your nose when tasting foods.

Try something new. Learn a new language or how to play a musical instrument. The less familiar something is, the more it stimulates the brain.

Make minor changes, such as taking a different route to work, rearranging furniture, eating in a different room, or walking up and down the aisles of the grocery store differently.

Don’t depend on technology all the time. Do math without using a calculator, send a hand written letter instead of an email, or read a book instead of watching TV.

Play challenging games such as chess which makes you think ahead or other games which make you rely on memory to help maintain a healthy brain.

Foods to increase brain power:

Omega-3 fatty acids facilitate the transmission of messages between brain cells. Salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, herring, trout, and flaxseed are high in Omega-3 fatty acids.

Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids and increases brain power by improving blood flow (and oxygen) to the brain. Green tea, red wine, and blueberries also contain flavonoids.

Avocados, bananas, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, oranges, soybeans, spinach, eggs, cheese, legumes, chicken, turkey, lean beef, and peanut butter are other foods good for the brain.

Disclaimer

Please read this disclaimer regarding the information contained within this article.