While memory lapses are a common sign of aging, we don’t have to accept our fate as such. No matter our age, there are things we can do to help improve both short- and long-term memory.
University Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at five simple life adjustments you can make give your brain a boost.
- Eat Your Vegetables
You can’t go wrong eating more vegetables, and research shows that eating two servings per day of leafy greens like spinach and kale will improve memory and overall cognitive ability, not to mention being great sources of protein, iron, and fiber.
- Stay Hydrated
Just like the rest of your body, being dehydrated can cause your memory to suffer. Being properly hydrated has been linked to better concentration, alertness, and short-term memory. A good formula to follow is to divide your weight by two, and that is the number of ounces you should drink per day.
- Eat More Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids that are in fish contain DHA, which is associated with improving memory. Plant-based omega-3s do not contain DHA, so it’s unique to foods like salmon and other fish high in fatty oils.
- Play Memory Games
Memory games are great exercises for your brain. If you don’t have a Memory card game or app on your smartphone or tablet, you can do this with a simple deck of cards. You can sort out the face cards, lay them face down, and try to match them. As you improve, you can add the whole deck to the mix.
- Choose Healthier Desserts
Instead of loading up on fat- and carb-heavy desserts, satisfy your sweet tooth with some fresh or frozen berries. Research suggests that the antioxidants in blueberries, raspberries, and the like help keep toxins out of the brain.
To learn more about University Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://university-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.
