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It’s never too soon to start taking steps to keep your brain healthy. But even if you’re already experiencing some changes, you can help prevent or slow the progress of cognitive decline.
“The brain is malleable and changeable, and can improve throughout our lives,” neurosurgeon and health correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta told the American Academy of Neurology’s Brain & Life magazine.
Dr. Gupta, who has written books about healthy aging and improving brain health, found that there are five main contributors to brain health that you can control: be more active, keep the brain stimulated, get enough quality sleep, eat a healthy diet, and build a strong social life.
Some of the steps you can take for your brain health are the same as the ones you take to keep your whole body healthy:
And staying mentally active is also an important way to protect your brain health. Make a game plan to help improve your cognitive fitness:
Having some mild forgetfulness or noticing a difference in your thinking doesn’t mean you have a serious problem. But if you’re experiencing changes in your memory or brain function that concern you, be sure to talk to your doctor. Signs that may be concerning include having trouble with simple math or paying bills, frequently getting lost, repeating things over and over, or losing things more often.