Five ways to keep your brain healthy as you get older

Trying to keep your mind sharp and your brain healthy as you grow older? Research shows that there are a number of simple steps anyone can take to preserve and protect brain function over time. Here are five of them:

Learn something new: Is there something new you’ve always wanted to try? Whether you want to learn how to paint, sew, play an instrument or take fabulous photos, learning a new and unfamiliar skill challenges you mentally.

Get enough sleep: After working hard all day, your brain needs a chance to recharge. Not getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night affects your ability to stay focused, remember important details, and deal with stress. You’re also more likely to rely on sugary snacks instead of healthy foods to give you the energy you need to get through the day. Getting enough sleep is vital to a healthy brain.

Learn a foreign language: Is there a foreign language that interests you? Spanish? French? Portuguese? Compared with people who only speak one language, those who speak multiple languages are more likely to have better concentration, memory and overall brain function, studies show.

Exercise: Exercise is just as important physically as it is mentally. Breaking a sweat improves blood flow to your brain, which helps to build new brain cells and repair and protect existing ones. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (walking, jogging, biking or swimming) each week, but know that any amount of physical activity can benefit you.

Eat healthy: A balanced diet is not only good for you, but it can also protect your brain. Foods like salmon, spinach, eggs and walnuts contain healthy omega 3 fatty acids that promote brain health. Studies show that blueberries, broccoli, avocado and sweet potatoes are also great foods for not only your overall health but your brain health, too. Stock up your fridge with healthy foods.