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Dementia is not an inevitable outcome.
Is dementia something we must all face as we get older? According to neurosurgeon Dr. Gupta, who is CNN’s top medical correspondent, not necessarily. “It was a mystical thing for me to operate on the brain for the first time almost 30 years back,” Dr. Gupta says. “You can’t fathom how significant 3 1/2 pounds are to humans — all of our suffering, all of our happiness, all of our memories, and so forth.” Here are four ways to preserve your brain and avoid dementia as described by Dr. Gupta.
1 — The Human Brain Loves Berries
According to Dr. Gupta, berries are excellent for brain health. “If you eat an apple a day it will keep the doctor away,” they say. “I believe that when it comes to the brain, berries are one of your best options. In terms of what berries can do for your brain and some of the specific chemicals they generate, may very well be one of your finest foods,” says Dr. Gupta from CNN.
2 — Use It Or Lose It
Do you want to maintain a young brain? Do new things. “The act of taking on something new, whether it’s learning a new skill or trying something familiar in a different way, can all help you grow new cells in the brain,” says Dr. Gupta. “We should walk down many paths and trails as often as possible so that our brains keep growing.”
3 — Keep Moving!
Every element of your health—and especially brain health—can benefit from exercise. “When you move, it is almost like you’re telling your brain, ‘I want to be here. I am not ready to leave yet!’ The brain releases these molecules that are called neurotrophins; which are good chemicals for the brain,” Dr. Gupta explains.
4 — Friends and Family are what your brain loves
Dr. Gupta continues, “What have we learned about areas with the most healthy brains in the world? They are typically active, have numerous social connections, and do not cling to their fears. Even areas that receive failing grades on traditional health indicators like smoking and cholesterol seem to be protected from cognitive decline due to social interactions… A simple way to preserve your brain both now and in the long term is to go for a stroll with a buddy and talk about your issues.”
