Brain health is equally important as our general health. Ever wondered how neurologists protect their own mental health? After all, they spend their careers studying the brain, diagnosing neurological disorders, and helping people improve their cognitive function. So, it makes sense that they’d have a few tricks up their sleeves when it comes to keeping their own minds sharp and resilient.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

The brain is like a muscle and it needs the right fuel, regular exercise, and proper rest to function like any other muscle in the body. Neurologists follow science-backed habits to enhance brain health, improve memory, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. As a matter of fact, their daily routines can teach us all a thing or two about keeping our minds in top shape.

 

Related story: 10 Ways To Promote Brain Health

 

3 Tips Neurologists Swear By To Boost Brain Health

Neurologists often adopt specific lifestyle practices to maintain optimal cognitive function. Here are three unique strategies that neurologists suggest to everyone to maintain their oral health. 

 

1. Maintain Blood Sugar And Manage Stress Levels
In an informative YouTube video, Dr. Pushpendra Nath Renjen, Senior Consultant, Neurology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi  highlights chronic conditions like diabetes mellitus and hypertension as risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia. According to a 2024 research in Pharmacology and Therapeutics, hypertension can cause blood vessel damage through constriction, leading to Alzheimer's and other dementias. Lowering blood pressure with antihypertensive medications may have a positive effect in preventing dementia. 

 

Related story: 5 Tweaks To Keep Your Brain Health

 

2. Do not Skip Regular Resistance Exercise
Physical activity, particularly resistance training, has been associated with improved cognitive function. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that physically active individuals had reduced levels of harmful proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease and performed better in cognitive tests. These benefits were particularly noticeable among older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment. 

 

3. Oral Health is Connected to Better Brain Function
Oral health is increasingly recognised as a factor influencing cognitive well-being. Flossing can have significant benefits beyond oral health, potentially extending lifespan by preventing conditions such as dementia. Flossing helps remove bacteria-laden biofilm that builds up between teeth and along the gumline, which, if left unchecked, can lead to gum disease. This bacteria-induced inflammation can spread to other parts of the body, increasing the risk of systemic health issues, including cognitive decline. 

 

Related story: 5 Things Not to Do to Keep Your Brain Healthy

 

Signs of Unhealthy Brain

Your brain controls everything; from memory and focus to emotions and body functions. When brain health drops, it can affect daily life in noticeable ways.

1. Memory Problems

• Frequently forgetting names, appointments, or recent conversations
• Struggling to recall common words or misplaced items
• Needing reminders for tasks you used to remember easily

 

2. Difficulty Concentrating

• Finding it hard to focus on work or conversations
• Getting distracted easily or struggling to complete tasks
• Feeling mentally sluggish or slow

 

3. Frequent Mood Changes

• Experiencing sudden mood swings or irritability
• You may feel more anxious or depressed without a clear reason
• Soemthimes losing interest in hobbies or activities is also a sign to look out for

 

4. Brain Fog

• Feeling mentally exhausted, even after rest
• Trouble processing information or making decisions
• Difficulty organising thoughts or expressing yourself clearly

 

5. Poor Sleep Routine & Quality

• Struggling to fall asleep or sleeping late
• Waking up feeling groggy and unrefreshed
• Experiencing frequent nightmares or restless sleep

 

Related story: 11 Ways to train Your Brain to Focus Better

 

Protecting brain health helps increase longevity and quality of life. Neurologists understand that managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, staying physically active through resistance exercises, and maintaining good oral hygiene all play a crucial role in keeping the brain sharp. These habits help reduce the risk of cognitive decline, dementia, and other neurological disorders. Also, anyone can take proactive steps to preserve brain function by making small yet impactful lifestyle changes.

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.