It’s no secret that maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise are vital for physical well-being. However, what many may not realize is that adopting a healthy lifestyle also benefits mental fitness.
Similar to how workouts in a gym strengthen muscles, engaging in challenging mental activities can fortify the brain. By engaging in a variety of stimulating “brain work,” you can keep your mental abilities and memory sharp throughout your life.
Believe it or not, a healthy brain also contributes to a healthy mouth. Oral health and mental health share a strong two-way connection. Studies have shown that poor oral health can be linked to dementia, and conversely, dementia can be linked to poor oral health.
Are you eager to improve your mental agility? Here are four fantastic ways to stay mentally fit, regardless of your age.
Discover something new
Help enhance and maintain your memory by picking up a new skill. Consider these options to challenge yourself:
- Learn a new language.
- Engage in a captivating hobby, like playing a musical instrument, coding, model building, or any activity that stimulates your brain.
- Step outside your comfort zone by attempting public speaking or something that pushes your boundaries.
Read as much as you can
A great book offers more than just an intriguing story; it can also serve as an excellent mental exercise, enhancing your brain’s effectiveness. To make the most of your reading experience, consider these tips:
- Venture outdoors! Find a nice spot on your lawn, patio, or in a park to read. Enjoy the fresh air while indulging in a good book, and remember to bring along a healthy snack.
- If possible, read with your kids or grandchildren. Choose books that teach them about good oral health habits, like those about the Tooth Fairy.
- Unwind before bedtime with a book. Reducing your stress levels can bring peace of mind and reduce the likelihood of oral health issues, such as mouth sores and teeth grinding.
Exercise your body, too
Staying physically active brings many benefits – not only for your body but also for your mind. Exercise can enhance memory, cognitive abilities, and trigger the release of chemicals that support brain health. Here are some enjoyable ways to get your heart pumping:
- Dedicate 30 minutes daily to exercise, whether it’s an intense weight workout or a leisurely stroll around the block – any activity counts!
- Engage in activities that challenge your hand-eye coordination, like table tennis or basketball.
- If time is limited, consider breaking your workouts into several short sessions. Take short breaks from your computer once an hour to stretch, move around, or take a quick walk.
Choose healthy foods
Research suggests that maintaining a healthy diet while avoiding an unhealthy one can positively impact brain health.
- For fruit enthusiasts, rejoice! Berries are particularly beneficial for brain function, and vitamin C-rich fruits like oranges can also contribute positively.
- On the other hand, those who consume a lot of red meats high in saturated fats may be disappointed. Such a diet can harm blood vessels in the brain and has been linked to memory loss and reduced cognitive abilities. Consider eating fish or plant-based meat substitutes instead.
- When craving something sweet, dark chocolate is an excellent choice. Cocoa beans may aid memory and information processing. Also, because chocolate melts quickly in your mouth, it poses less risk of cavities compared to hard candies or gummies.
Remember that fitness extends far beyond physical strength and weight management. Just as you invest in your physical well-being, nurturing your mental fitness is equally important. Taking steps to ensure that your brain stays healthy and active can help ensure that your mind stays sharp, and that your teeth stay in great shape for years to come.
Sources:
“Exercise can boost your memory and thinking skills,” Harvard Health Publishing, https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-can-boost-your-memory-and-thinking-skills
“Memory,” Harvard Health Publishing, https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/memory
“Oral hygiene and oral health in older people with dementia: a comprehensive review with focus on oral soft tissues,” National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5748411/
“Learning A New Skill Works Best To Keep Your Brain Sharp,” NPR, https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2014/05/05/309006780/learning-a-new-skill-works-best-to-keep-your-brain-sharp/
“Benefits of Reading Books: How It Can Positively Affect Your Life,” Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-reading-books
“Boost your memory by eating right,” Harvard Health Publishing, https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/boost-your-memory-by-eating-right
“Neuroprotective effects of berry fruits on neurodegenerative diseases,” National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4192974/
