The brain is a vital part of our body. It controls everything we do, including thinking, moving, breathing, and feeling emotions. It helps us make decisions, remember things, and keeps the body working properly.
According to NCERT, the brain also helps us move, keeps our body balanced, and controls important organs such as the lungs, heart, and kidneys without us being aware of it. It also manages body temperature, hunger, thirst, the sleep cycle, and hormone-producing glands. In addition, the brain allows us to see, hear, speak, think, feel emotions, and behave in certain ways.
As we grow older, the brain may become slower. However, we can keep it strong and active by following some healthy habits. Harvard Health Publishing suggests a few simple ways to support brain health.
1. Challenge Your Mind
Doing brain activities can help form new connections between brain cells. This can improve memory and thinking ability.
Some helpful activities include solving puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, and jigsaw puzzles. You can also try learning something new such as painting, cooking, writing, or coding. Creative tasks like drawing or playing a musical instrument are also good for the brain.
2. Stay Physically Active
Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. It helps improve brain function and keeps your body fit at the same time.
You can stay active by going for a walk, playing sports, dancing, swimming, or doing yoga. Regular movement helps both your body and your brain stay healthy.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet helps the brain work better. You should add veggies, fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains to your diet. Try to avoid junk food, sugary snacks, and fried items.
4. Manage Blood Pressure and Sugar
High blood pressure and high blood sugar can harm the brain. To keep them under control, eat healthy food, avoid too much salt and sugar, and drink plenty of water. Before exams, do not eat oily or heavy food, as it can make you feel sleepy.
5. Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol
Smoking and drinking can damage the brain. These habits affect memory, focus, and thinking skills. Staying away from tobacco and alcohol is one of the best ways to protect your brain.
6. Build Strong Social Connections
Talking to others and spending time with people you trust can improve your mood and mental strength. Having a group of good friends and family support helps reduce stress and keeps you motivated. Studying or discussing lessons with friends can also make learning easier and more enjoyable.
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Your brain plays a very important role in your overall well-being. To keep it sharp and healthy, keep learning new things, stay physically active, eat nutritious food, and avoid harmful habits. These habits will help your brain stay strong at any age.