Brain Fact # 14
Dr. Larry McCleary (Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Denver Children’s Hospital) was asked the following question: What is the single most important brain-related idea or concept that you would like every person on the planet to fully understand?
His answer: “The most important take home message about brain health is that we now know that no matter what your brain status or age, there is much you can do to significantly improve brain functions and slow brain aging. Unlike many things in life, our brain health is largely under our own control. I believe the valuable components of a well-rounded approach to brain health are appropriate nutrition, stimulating brain activities, physical activities and stress reduction.
Brain healthy nutrition – fatty, cold-water fish, vegetables, non-starchy fruits and nuts
Brain healthy stimulating activities – anything that makes you think: schoolwork, occupational endeavours, leisure activities, puzzles, formal brain training
Brain healthy physical activities – anything that gets your heart pumping: aerobic training and mix in resistance (weights) exercises and speed and agility routines
Brain healthy stress reduction – chronic, unremitting stress kills neurons, learn to balance life’s challenges and getting plenty of restorative sleep