World Brain Day 2024: Expert shares 10 simple lifestyle changes to boost brain health

World Brain Day 2024: Expert shares 10 simple lifestyle changes to boost brain health

New Delhi: Neurological disorders contribute to 10 per cent of the total disease burden in India. Brain conditions such as stroke, headache disorders, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and more are gradually increasing in the country. But what is leading to a rise in brain diseases, is lifestyle a factor?

On World Brain Day, Dr Srinivas Botla, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon, Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad told News9, “Boosting brain health is easier than you think! Incorporating simple lifestyle changes into your daily routine can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and even reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.”

Here are some easy-to-adopt changes to get you started:

1. Exercise regularly: Engage in moderate-intensity physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day to improve blood flow to the brain and promote neuroplasticity.

2 Sleep soundly: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help your brain clear waste and consolidate memories. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.

3. Meditate daily: Practice mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to reduce stress and inflammation. Start with just 5-10 minutes a day and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the practice.

4. Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole, plant-based foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and fibre. Include brain-boosting foods like nuts, berries, fatty fish, and leafy greens.

5. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain cognitive function and focus. Aim for at least 2-3 litres of water each day.

6. Challenge your mind: Engage in activities that promote cognitive stimulation, such as reading, puzzles, learning a new skill, or playing a musical instrument.

7. Connect with others: Build strong social connections to support cognitive health and overall well-being. Engage in regular social activities with friends and family.

8. Manage stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, like exercise, journaling, or talking to a friend. Take some breaks throughout the day to stretch and relax.

9. Get enough vitamin D: Maintain optimal levels through sun exposure, supplements, or fortified foods. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cognitive decline and depression.

10. Limit screen time: Establish a healthy balance between technology use and other aspects of your life. Focus on spending less than 2 hours per day on the screen. 

Incorporate these simple changes into your daily routine and start boosting your brain health today! Small changes can add up over time, so start with one or two changes and gradually work your way up to achieve a healthier, happier brain!

 On World Brain Day, expert shared how brain health and lifetsyle conditions are interconnected. He said, boosting brain health is easier than you think! Incorporating simple lifestyle changes into your daily routine can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and even reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline  Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare