5 Everyday Habits That Could Be Harming Your Brain — And How To Give It A Workout – News18
Exercising your brain is as important as physical exercise for maintaining cognitive health.
Brain health involves more than just intelligence or memory; it’s about ensuring your brain functions effectively in problem-solving and stress management.
Brain health is more than just being intelligent or having a great memory, it’s about ensuring your brain remains in peak condition to tackle all aspects of daily life. A healthy brain plays a crucial role in helping you think clearly, make sound decisions and manage your emotions effectively. It enables you to solve problems efficiently, stay calm under stress, and navigate life’s challenges with ease. However, it’s important to recognise that certain daily habits, though they might seem harmless at first, can have a detrimental impact on your brain over time. By addressing these factors, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your brain’s well-being:
Chronic stress
When stress becomes a constant companion, it leads to prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, a hormone that, in excess, can impair brain function and contribute to cognitive decline.
Inadequate sleep
Poor sleep hygiene can severely affect brain health. Inadequate or irregular sleep disrupts the brain’s ability to consolidate memories and perform essential maintenance tasks, which can lead to issues with memory and cognitive performance over time.
Excessive screen time
Spending prolonged hours in front of screens, whether for work or leisure, can strain the eyes and disrupt circadian rhythms. This not only affects sleep but also contributes to decreased attention spans and cognitive fatigue.
Consuming sugary food
A diet high in processed foods and sugars can negatively impact brain function. Such a diet can lead to inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which are linked to impaired cognitive function and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Loud headphones
Prolonged exposure to loud noises, including music at high volumes, can lead to hearing loss and may also have other detrimental effects on brain health. When exposed to loud music, the auditory system is under stress, which can cause damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. Over time, this damage can result in hearing loss, which is associated with increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Exercising your brain is as important as physical exercise for maintaining cognitive health. Engaging in brain games and puzzles such as Sudoku, crosswords, or apps designed to boost cognitive functions can help improve memory, problem-solving skills, and mental agility. These activities challenge your brain to think differently and adapt, which strengthens neural connections.
Just like your body, your brain needs the right fuel — like healthy foods — and regular activity, whether it’s learning new things or staying socially connected. In the long run, these habits can help protect your brain from issues like memory loss or mood swings as you get older.
