Mind Your Memory!

Here are ways to boost your brain power.

While memory lapses occur throughout our lives, they become more frequent – and worrisome – as we get older. The good news is that you can take action to keep your memory intact and possibly even prevent future cognitive decline. For optimal functioning, your brain needs proper nutrition, adequate exercise, regular stimulation, minimal stress and sufficient rest.

Feed your brain

Your brain needs adequate nutrition to work effectively. A healthy diet also helps prevent or correct obesity, which is associated with illnesses that increase the risk for cerebrovascular disease and lead to memory decline. Randall Espinoza, MD, MPH, a psychiatrist at UCLA Health System, suggests using the Mediterranean diet as a guideline: “Eat whole grains, a variety of fruits and vegetables, fish and chicken, and cook in olive oil or other poly- or monounsaturated oils.”

Move your body