6 Memory Boosters
April 27th 2008 04:02
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Can't remember where you last put your car keys? The name of your best friend in primary school? Your colleague's phone number? Your memory, the brain's capacity to retain information, could be under fire.
The brain is exactly like any part of the body: without fuelling it properly, it will, in time, lose its edge. But the process isn't inevitable. Here are six tips to boost brainpower:
Eat less, but better
It's well known that eating chips, cookies, processed foods and other junk reduces the body's energy levels throughout the day.
The same holds true for the brain: it needs to be fed properly to work to its maximum capacity. By establishing healthy eating habits that should last a lifetime, you will ensure your brain will get all the essential vitamins and minerals necessary to function properly.
It's important to start the day on the right footing by eating a healthy breakfast to restore energy levels from a night of fasting. Throughout the day, eat a wide variety of vegetables (the more colours the better); lean meat and fish for protein; dairy for strong bones; carbohydrates for energy and a limited amount of salt, sugar and fat.
Play and recognise
Memory worsens when it's not trained. Playing mind-challenging games can maintain a great memory. Think Scrabble, chess, bridge, crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles. Not only can these games be fun, they also stimulate the brain to think critically and strategically.
Taking up a new activity, especially one involving learning names or patterns, will also enhance brainpower: dancing, step classes, bird watching, painting, photography, acting, singing and languages all force the brain to retain information, as well as tapping into your creative side.
Say no to drugs and alcohol
Illicit drugs such as cocaine can kill brain cells, impair judg ment and creativity, and fog the brain. And studies show long-time alcoholics suffer memory loss due to cerebral lesions, which are irreversible.
However, drinking red wine (in moderation) will actually help protect the brain because of the antioxidants it contains (substances or nutrients contained in foods like fruit and vegetables that slow the oxidative effects on our body).
Get a good night's sleep, take a nap
Like the body, the brain must rest. At night the brain sorts through the events of the day and stores memories. Everyone's sleep needs are different, but waking up feeling sluggish and forgetful could indicate sleep deprivation. Refresh your memory and get the edge back by taking a nap during the day.
Read and learn
Reading is the ultimate brain booster. Not only does reading provide a relaxing outlet from daily stress and anxiety, it also feeds the brain large amounts of information, some of which will be retained; adds new words to your vocabulary; promotes critical thought processes and teaches you to concentrate for long periods.
Though magazines and newspapers count, ploughing through hundreds of pages will really give your brain a good run. And the more you read, the more you'll learn, and the faster the brain will process and retain information. Writing, understanding, listening and communicating will also preserve your neuron s.
Exercise and relax
Exercise does wonders for your memory. Cardiovascular activity promotes the secretion of endorphins and produces a feeling of well being. Incorporating several sessions of meditation, yoga, and stretching will decrease stress levels and pressure, which are sometimes responsible for forgetfulness, and will help the brain rid itself of negative energy and thoughts.
There's no magic bullet to boost memory. Step out of your comfort zone, challenge your brain with new activities, and follow a healthy lifestyle; not only will you increase cerebral activity, you will also improve overall health and wellness.
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Comment by tlcorbin
Raven