The brain is the most important organ in our body, playing a role in every action and in every thought. As you age, some brain cells can be deteriorate or function less efficiently, potentially affecting your speed of mental processing and ability to retrieve information rapidly. However, many factors besides aging affect mental ability. Depression, stress, sleep disorders, poor health and certain medications are among the most common.

These 10 tips not only improve your brain health, they also strengthen your memory & cognitive ability:

1. Do “neurobic” exercises. It is exercise for your brain cells. This involves sensory stimulation that secrets molecules called neurotrophins, to improve cellular health. Engage your senses that are not normally part of your daily routine. Take a different route to work, shower with your eyes closed being mindful of the sounds and how the water feels on your skin, practice using your non-dominant hand to brush your teeth or comb your hair. The more senses you include the better. These exercises will help your brain build neuronal connections.

2. Ginkgo biloba . Almost universally accepted as an effective treatment for deteriorating memory and early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, this age-old herb boasts high levels of antioxidants and enhances blood flow in the brain.

3. Exercise. Exercise increases blood flow to all parts of your body, including your brain and might promote cell growth there. Studies show that people who exercise have greater levels of concentration and attention than those who do not exercise. Fit people have a thicker gray matter, which protects the brain against mental decline as we age.

4. Limit your alcohol intake. The more alcohol you consume, the lower your brain volume becomes. Scientists at Wellesley College in Massachusetts found that low to moderate levels of alcohol helps protect your health from cardiovascular disease, but heavy drinking shrinks brains. These researchers define heavy drinking as more than 14 drinks per week, moderate drinking as 8 to 14 drinks per week, and low as less than 7 drinks per week. To increase your intellect and cognitive ability, keep the alcohol consumption to a minimum.

5. Eat fruits and vegetables. Oranges, berries, broccoli, carrots and tomatoes contain antioxidants – substances that may help protect your brain cells from damage over time.

6. Sleep well-treat sleep disorders. Your brain requires huge amounts of energy to function properly; sleep boost memory and allows your brain to process information. Sleep little – if at all – during the day because naps rob you of sleep at night. To improve your brain health, get up and go to bed at set times. Stay active but avoid exercising in the evening because it keeps you awake. Wind down before you go to bed with music or a book. Enjoy healthy food, eat light meals at night, and avoid caffeine.

7. Socialize with people. People who have large social networks report to have a higher quality of life, and also show to have lower death rates. Relationships are stimulating for the brain, so go mingle! Join a new bowling league, card club, or book club to expand your networks.

8.Exercise your mind. An active brain produces new connections between nerve cells that allow cells to communicate with one another. To challenge your mind, try taking a class or engaging in a new hobby. Other activities that could help include reading, volunteering and staying connected with friends.

9. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids — found in foods including walnuts, flax, and fatty fish such as salmon and sardines can boost brain areas that govern mood.

10. Quit smoking. Smokers may have twice the risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease as do people who’ve never smoked. If you quit now, you may still reduce your risk of memory loss.

Practical tips for physical brain protect:

- Protect against concussions by wearing an approved helmet when engaging in sporting activities such as skating, skiing, skateboarding, rollerblading and cycling. Set a good example and ensure that children in your care wear appropriate helmets.

- Drive safely and always wear a seatbelt to reduce injuries in an accident.

- Use safety features like handrails to prevent falls.

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5. 7 Successful Ways to Become a Smarter Person