Look after your brain!

Brain awareness week 10-16 March

Our brains are very important - I don't need to tell you that. But how well they function really can depend on how we treat them. Like the rest of the body - our brain needs a certain amount of nutrients, sleep, and exercise to remain in peak condition; and it relies on us to provide the sustenance it needs.
Unfortunately - in 'today's modern society' we are 'too busy'. We consume more processed foods which have little nutritional value, work long hours which causes increased stress and decreased sleep, and are too tired to exercise - opting for the couch and a glass of wine to wind down with.
How can we expect our poor brains to keep up with the increasing demands we place on them. It's like working with a dirty engine, and no petrol in the car!
We are becoming an aging population, people are living longer; and whilst increasing longevity is a positive for us; it's no wonder there are increasing cases of dementia when the population may not be looking after their brain as well as they could do.
Here are some simple things to do for your brain...Treat it well!

Nourish the brain

Our brain needs good fats in order to keep it ticking over. A low intake of omega 3 oils has been linked to an increased chance of Alzheimer's disease,
Eat more of these:
Avocado, olives, olive oil, nuts, seeds, oily fish (mackerel, tuna, sardines, salmon), flaxseed, chia seeds

Feed the brain

Our brain needs to have a good range of nutrients in order to perform & function. B vitamins help to counteract the effects of stress which we know can give rise to a myriad of of detrimental effects. B6, B12 and folic acid in particular - have been shown to reduce the risk of stroke, Alzheimer's, & cognitive impairment.
Eat these foods:
Vegemite, eggs, bananas, legumes, lean red meat, green leafy vegetables, asparagus & brocolli

exercise the brain

When we exercise, the increased blood flow reaches the brain also - bringing with it all the nutrients (which you would have already consumed); and a fresh supply of oxygen that literally clears the head!
Get off your backside:
Aim for 30 minutes a day, walk more, sign up to a local gym, get out in the park. Also - be more active at home, get up in ad breaks, do some chores, get the dishes done!
Mental exercise is also important - it helps build more brain cells, and connects them
Do crosswords/sudoku, learn a language, do a night class - keep it stimulated

rest the brain

The brain needs to switch off at times, rather than that being in front of the tv;
Try meditation: Just stopping, closing your eyes and breathing is enough to tell your brain to calm down.
www.getsomeheadspace.com is a great online tool with guided meditation to get you started.
Get some sleep: A good 8 hours is enough to let the brain rest, heal, and form fresh neural connections.