Three Things You Can Do To Promote Brain Health

[Guest guest]

While there are still mysteries surrounding the fundamental process of memory,

research has revealed activities that may enhance memory and promote overall

brain health. H. Byrne, Ph.D., professor and chairman of the Department of

Neurobiology and Anatomy at the University of Texas Health Science Center at

Houston (UTHealth) Medical School, studies the neuronal and molecular mechanisms

underlying learning and memory. Here are three tips he offers for maintaining

and improving brain health.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/198000.php

While there are still mysteries surrounding the fundamental process of memory,

research has revealed activities that may enhance memory and promote overall

brain health. H. Byrne, Ph.D., professor and chairman of the Department of

Neurobiology and Anatomy at the University of Texas Health Science Center at

Houston (UTHealth) Medical School, studies the neuronal and molecular mechanisms

underlying learning and memory. Here are three tips he offers for maintaining

and improving brain health.

1) Exercise

" Everyone knows that exercise is good for the heart, but what they may not know

is that exercise also appears to be good for the brain, " said Byrne, the June

and Virgil Waggoner Chair. " There is a lot of recent evidence demonstrating that

exercise itself promotes neurogenesis - the generation of new nerve cells in the

brain. It had long been believed that once you lose nerve cells, they are gone

for good and the brain cannot regenerate them, but exercise appears to inspire

the brain's ability to generate nerve cells. "

2) Diet

" There are certain 'brain foods' that seem to have a benefit on the brain, "

Byrne said. " New research shows that Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in

salmon and other fish, may build the brain's gray matter. Foods and beverages

that are rich in antioxidants may also help keep the brain sharp. For brain

food, consider a glass of red wine, some salmon, blueberries, a little bit of

chocolate or a cup of green tea. Foods, indeed, can play a role in brain health,

but remember, everything in moderation. Research shows that those who are obese

have a higher incidence of Alzheimer's disease and other diseases that affect

the brain. Staying slim appears to promote brain health, so exercise,watch your

calories and eat the right types of food. "

3) Brain activity

" You've heard the saying, `Use it or lose it.' It's true, " Byrne said. Those who

are intellectually active have a lower incidence of Alzheimer's. You must

exercise your brain cells just as you exercise your muscles, so read a book or

do a crossword puzzle. Those types of activities can protect your brain. There

is also evidence that social activities help to promote brain health.

Interacting with others stimulates the brain. "