Many questions arise when you start thinking of bettering your neurological health. How do you make sure that your brain is functioning at its best? What foods should you be eating, and what exercises should you do to help keep your mind sharp? Below, we will explore six tips for achieving perfect neurological health and answer these critical questions.
Shift to a Mediterranean diet
If you’re worried about reducing neurological symptoms, shifting to a Mediterranean diet may be the answer to your problem. The Mediterranean diet emphasises fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. It consists mainly of plant-based foods with small dairy products, fish, and poultry as these foods are not allowed. A Mediterranean diet should give you enough antioxidants and polyphenols, which help protect your brain from oxidative stress.
Sign up for functional neurology
If you are looking for a more specific way to improve your neurological health, consider signing up for functional neurology. This approach focuses on finding and treating the root causes of many neurological disorders rather than just managing symptoms. Functional neurologists use a variety of tests and techniques to determine what is causing your issues and then develop a treatment plan specifically tailored to you.
Regular exercise
Exercise is crucial for overall health, and it’s no different when it comes to neurological health. Regular exercise may be one of the most important things you can do to protect your brain. Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, and increase overall brain health.
Take part in mental stimulation activities
Just as exercise is essential for the body, mental stimulation activities are necessary for the brain. Frequent exercises, including mind exercise, have been found to help stimulate new nerve cell connection and increase the chances of developing new brain cells. When this happens, your brain creates a cell reserve of some sort that protects against the loss of cells in the future. Some helpful mental stimulation activities you can try include puzzles, crosswords, and other mental games and activities that can help keep your mind sharp and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is another way to keep your neurological health in check. When you don’t get enough sleep, not only are you more likely to experience cognitive decline, but you’re also putting yourself at risk for other chronic health conditions like heart disease and obesity. Seven to eight hours of sleep is recommended, though this varies from person to person.
Keep your blood sugar in check
High blood sugar levels have been linked to several neurologic conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and even stroke. Blood sugar levels can increase due to factors such as stress, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. By keeping your blood sugar levels in check, you’re reducing the risk of neurological health issues that may arise later in life. If you’re worried about your blood sugar levels, work with your doctor to develop a plan to get them under control.
Your neurological health is one of the most critical aspects of your overall health. Taking excellent care of it shouldn’t be anything out of the ordinary. With the above six health tips in mind, you’re well on your way to perfect neurological health.
Adam Mulligan did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
