Getting older doesn’t mean you have to lose your mind. Believe it or not, it’s possible to lead a full and active – physically and mentally – life as a 50, 60, 70 and even 80 something. With these five tips, you can keep getting better with time!
1. Get moving.
Sneaking in at least 30 minutes of exercise three to four days a week helps give your brain the extra boost that it needs. Say hello to better cognitive function, as well as reduced risks for Alzheimer’s disease, depression, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
2. Keep learning.
As we age, it becomes especially important for us to exercise not only our bodies but our minds as well. Learning a new language, reading a good, long book, and solving brain teasers and puzzles are great ways to stimulate areas of the brain that you wouldn’t normally use.
3. Drink tea.
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Swapping out that cup of Joe for a cup of tea, especially peppermint, can do more than just freshen your breath. According to
a study conducted by Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia, the smell and taste of peppermint can have a positive effect on several cognitive functions, such as concentration, perception, memory, and problem solving, just to name a few.
4. Get enough sleep.
Who doesn’t love a good night’s sleep? And after you find out what it does for your brain, you’re going to love it even more. Getting a good night’s sleep (7-9 hours) not only strengthens your memory, but it also replenishes the energy in your brain that’s often lost throughout the day. So, go ahead and hit that snooze button!
5. Eat the right foods.
Blueberries may be small in size, but they work wonders for your mind. By incorporating blueberries into your everyday diet, you’re protecting your brain from oxidative stress while lowering your chances for developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia due to the fact that they’re loaded with antioxidants. But, wait, that’s not all! Blueberries can also improve your learning capacity and motor skills, making them a superfood indeed. Other foods that boost your brain health include salmon, citrus fruits and almonds.
