Tips On How To Better Brain Function

By Patricia Kennedy


The brain is the center of what we see, hear, feel, smell, think of and do. When this organ is not functioning optimally, we may never unleash our full potential. In spite of the many studies that have been conducted on the organ over many years, there are many things that remain unclear. This notwithstanding, there are several things that have been shown to help better brain function. We will look at a number of them.

The brain has been found to be highly flexible. In fact, some experts have compared it to a piece of clay being handled by a potter; it will take a different shape depending on the desires of the potter. The world around us acts as the potter presenting various challenges that shape it so that it becomes most appropriately adapted (also known as neuroplasticity). As we learn how to handle these situations, new pathways of memory are established.

There are a number of activities that one can engage in as part of exercise for the brain. Engaging in brain teasers and solving puzzles is one of the methods that can be used to help the organ form new pathways and keep it alert. Another way of achieving the same is to do ordinary tasks using newer methods. For instance, one can try using their less dominant hand to write, comb their hair or to brush their teeth.

Nutrition is an important consideration for any person that hopes to maintain optimal mental function. One of the most important groups of nutrients in this regard are omega 3 fatty acids. The fatty acids are available both in plant and animals. The rich animal sources include sea oil, krill, squid oil, mammalian eyes and brains, eggs and meat. The main plant sources include chia seeds, flax seeds, raspberry and butternuts among others.

Omega 3 fatty acids have, for a long time, been used as adjunct treatments to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders and bipolar mood disorder. The mechanism of action is believed to be the ability of the fats to reduce inflammation within the nervous tissue. The fats have also been found to be useful in the prevention of Alzheimer disease, a condition associated with loss of memory in seniors.

Vitamin B12 is another important nutrient that aids in neural function. It is specifically involved in brain growth and development. The rich sources of this vitamin include eggs, seafood, pork and chicken among others. A deficiency of this vitamin causes varied neurological disorders. On the other hand, taking B12 supplements in the diet helps to reduce the risk of Alzheimers disease and brain atrophy.

Taking part in regular physical exercise will help with proper functioning of virtually all the body organs. During physical exercise, increased metabolic requirements in the brain tissue results in increased blood supply. This helps to maintain mental alertness that is sustained even after the event has ended. Growth factors are released during this period and these are vital to the process of neuroplasticity.

Strive to get enough sleep both at night and in the form of power naps during the day. A single power nap during the day lasting about 3o minutes significantly improves mental performance. As for the night, get a minimum of 6 hours of quality sleep. During sleep new synaptic connections between neural fibers are formed. This forms the basis of new pathways.




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