Tuesday, January 02, 2007

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Improving your Memory by Taking Proper Care of your Brain

We all know that the best way to a healthy body is diet and exercise. However, do we ever take the time to exercise our brains? Do we eat for a healthy brain? probably not, for most of us.

As busy women, we rarely take time to eat properly and exercise our bodies, so what can we do to improve our Brain Health?

Let's begin with Diet:

You always hear me say...DRINK MORE WATER! Well, I am saying it again. Drink it up, ladies!

Also, the following nutrients may be helpful for brain health.

- Omega 3 Fatty Acids. These “good fats” can be found in fish, including: tuna, salmon, and mackerel. They can also be found in certain nuts and oils.

- Choline. This is the main nutrient required in the production of acetocholine, the most essential chemical in retaining memory. You can find it in fish (especially anchovies), eggs, soy, and some types of nuts.

- DMAE. This is easily absorbed into the brain and also aids in the production of acetylcholine. It can be found in sardines and anchovies, but most people prefer taking a supplement. Be sure to take it in the morning, as it can cause insomnia.

- B & C Vitamins. Getting enough of the B vitamins and vitamin C are very important for the proper brain function. B vitamins have been shown to raise scores on IQ tests.

- Pyroglutamate. This is an essential amino acid that can be used to improve memory, concentration, coordination, and reaction time. It is found in dairy products, fish, fruit, and vegetables.

- Phosphatidylserine. This chemical has not only been shown to improve resistance to stress.

- Glutamine. Another important amino acid for brain function. Along with the improved brain function, glutamine is an energy booster can help you break your addictions to stimulants.

Getting just a couple of these nutrients into your body can help you feel better, and improve your memory.

Now, onto Exercising the Brain:

How do you exercise your brain?

Simply put...USE IT!

- Do a Crossword Puzzle. You can also try solving other puzzles that require using your language skills. These help you remember things by making you regularly access simple memories.

- Number Puzzles. Go to a book store or go online and find Sudoku puzzles. These are number puzzles that are becoming increasingly popular. They help exercise your brain’s deductive reasoning skills. Plus, they’re fun and incredibly addictive.

- Learn Something New. The capacity of your brain is only determined by how much you want to put in it. Try learning a new skill or how to play a musical instrument. Learning a skill and continue to use it will keep your memory accessing skills limber.

- Expand your Vocabulary. Learn a new word every day. Your brain will be learning something new every day, and you will speak more inteligently!

- Let go of Speed Dial. Memorize those phone numbers. Yeah, technoligy is great...but when do we USE our brains?

- Exercise. Take care of your body. Try exercising at least 3 times a week. Even if you only get to walk. Do some type of exercise.

Keep in mind, exercising your mind has been shown to ward off Alzheimer’s. So if you want to keep your mind sharp, be sure to eat right, get enough rest, and exercise regularly.

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