How You Can Improve Brain Function
By Sara Butler
Every aspect of your health is controlled by your brain, so it makes sense to keep it functioning at its very best. Many people prioritize the maintenance of other areas of their body for the sake of their appearance, leaving the brain out of the equation. Make sure you feed your brain and do all you can to keep it functioning optimally as you get older. Here are a few easy ways you can maintain your brain function.
Drink Water - And More Water!
Your brain is comprised of up to 75 percent water. If you're dehydrated, then your brain can actually shrink in size, leading to symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Moodiness
- Mental confusion
It can also impair your short- and long-term memory as it reduces the overall function of your brain. Luckily, this is a problem easy to fix! All you need to do is make sure to drink water throughout the day, every day. You should be drinking at least half your body weight in ounces of water, so get yourself a refillable water bottle and sip away!
Sit Up Straight
Tech neck is something that plagues a lot of people since we're constantly connected through computers and smartphones. Practicing poor posture leads to tech neck, which places stress and strain on your neck, upper back, and your brain!
That's because a forward head position or slouching can reduce the blood flow to your brain, which can impair cognition and even kill brain cells. Make sure to work with your chiropractor on practicing proper posture. Your brain will appreciate it!
Move Your Body
When you get involved in working or something else that's hogging all your attention, then it can be difficult to remember to get up and move around. But that's exactly what you should do.
Step away from your projects or your shows for a few minutes on a regular basis to move your body, stretch, and get your blood flowing. Studies have shown that long periods of sitting down can impact your memory and cognitive function.
Give Up Soda
Some of the drinks and foods you enjoy are terrible for your brain. Drinks such as juices and sodas, which are full of refined sugars, can cause inflammation in the brain and slow your cognitive function. Try to give up foods with refined carbohydrates, such as sugar, and trans fats.
Take care of your brain with these easy tips!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Englewood, Colo.