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10 Small Things Neurologists Wish You’d Do for Your Brain

Ten takeaways:

The New York Times asked 8 of our country’s leading neurologists and neuroscientists to share their tips for maintaining strong neurological health– and helping to stave off possible threats to the brain’s long term function. Here they are!

• Wear a helmet: This one is simple– protect your head from blunt trauma. Recurrent head trauma & repeated concussions are a leading cause of dementia and cognitive decline, as well as other negative health outcomes.
• Put in earplugs when you’re mowing the lawn – Older people with hearing loss are proven to have a greater risk for developing dementia. Scientists think it may be because the part of the brain that processes hearing is close to the part responsible for memory. If it is suggested that you wear hearing aids, do not wait: these devices will help your brain retain the stimulatory power & keep the function fresh
• Get your eyes checked: scientists also believe that vision loss is linked to cognitive decline. One 2023 study found that about a third of adults over 71 who had moderate to severe vision impairment also had dementia. As with our hearing power, eyesight helps the brain make connections and stay functioning at its best.
• Take a walk, and swap your chair for a stool: Neurologists know that exercise benefits the brain by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery. Even small amounts of physical activity can help. It is also important to minimize time spent sitting or being inactive. One key technique is replacing fully supported chairs with stools, boxes, or benches that require your body to actively engage for balance and support.
• Manage your cholesterol: Bad cholesterol can restrict blood flow to the brain and increase your risk for stroke and cognitive decline. Check your cholesterol levels diligently, and make diet and exercise adjustments as necessary to keep them in doctor-recommended zones.
• Floss every day- Oral hygiene is essential for preventing infections and gum disease. Oral infections can spread to the sinuses, which can then trigger a clot or drainage problems in the brain. Avert an infection that could spread to the brain by flossing and generally keeping great oral hygiene.
• Join a book club– In general, make an effort to be social. Maintaining an active social life keeps the negative health effects of isolation (depression, early mortality) – at bay. Research shows that scheduled & intentional social time makes a massive difference for one’s well-being.
• Wear a mask on smoggy or smoky days: Growing evidence links air pollution to cognitive decline. Researchers believe that microscopic, inhalable particles can enter the bloodstream and reach the brain, where they may trigger harmful chemical changes. On days when air quality is poor—whether from smog or wildfire smoke—wearing a high-quality mask and limiting outdoor exposure can help reduce risk.
• Watch your neck: Your neck plays a critical role in delivering blood to the brain. Injuries or sudden strain can restrict blood flow, depriving the brain of oxygen or even increasing the risk of clotting. Avoid abrupt twists or forceful pulling motions, and seek medical attention promptly if you suspect even a minor neck injury.
• Sleep well: Quality sleep is essential for a healthy brain. While sleep needs vary from person to person, understanding your own patterns is key. Minimize habits that disrupt rest—such as excessive screen time or eating and drinking late at night—and aim for consistent, restorative sleep to support long-term cognitive function.

It’s never too early or too late to start building your brain’s defenses and setting yourself up for long-term neurological health.

by Mohana Ravindranath for The New York Times:
Read the whole story.

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