Basics for Brain Health

The brain is pretty amazing! Like many parts of our body, common sense care goes a long way. Eating well, getting quality sleep, and exercise benefits your whole entire body, including your brain.

Brain facts: Did you know

*Here are some random, cool things about the brain…

There are about 100 billion neurons in the brain, allowing thoughts to travel up to speeds of 250 MPH.

The adult human brain weighs about 3 pounds.

The brain is about 75% water, so staying hydrated is important for brain health.

Dreams prove your brain is working even when you are sleeping.

“The human brain has 100 billion neurons, each neuron connected to 10 thousand other neurons. Sitting on your shoulders is the most complicated object in the known universe.” – Michio Kaku

Building Blocks for a Healthy Brain

The Cleveland Clinic has some great online resources for brain health. They discuss a lot of those common sense things I mentioned above and explain how they correlate to a healthy brain. The bottom line: exercise, sleep, and a health diet are all important factors to keep your brain healthy.

Brain Food

The foods we eat affect our whole entire body, not just our belly.

**Fatty fish, blueberries, and nuts are just a few food that help your brain stay healthy.

Omega 3 is found in fatty fish and makes up a % of your brain, so eating foods rich in this type of fat helps your brain thrive. Some people take an Omega 3 supplement if they don’t eat these types of food regularly. Supplements should be plan B in my opinion. Food sources are better, but a supplement is better than nothing!

Brain Exercises

As if we don’t have enough body parts to work out…

When is the last time you said, “I really need to get a brain workout in today!”

Work out your brain by challenging your mind! Our brain needs exercise too. Puzzles, memory games, and learning new hobbies can work out your brain.

I have been trying to use my non-dominate hand as much as possible. My writing looks like a 4 year old but it’s getting better. Try brushing your teeth with the opposite hand. It feels so weird!

Habits and patterns are great, but to work your brain, you need to break the mold and try something new! Paint a picture. Learn a new language. Read a book you would not normally read. Try a new sport.

One of my 2021 goals is to include my brain in my workout routine!

*Source: Healthline

**Source: Healthline Brain boosting foods

Menopause and Brain health

I recently listened to a very interesting TED talk regarding Menopause and the effects on womens’ brains.

When I think of Menopause, I immediately think of emotional imbalances, hot flashes, and night sweats (these are NOT fun by the way!!) Turns out there is a lot more to it. Brain health is so important, especially when it comes to aging and the prevention of Alzheimers and Dimentia.

If you are a woman approaching mid life with 15 minutes to spare, listen here to educate yourself!

Ps. If you are reading this and you are a friend of mine, you probably fall into this category. Just face it. 🙂