5 of 59

Write now Article Tools

The phrase "use it or lose it" applies as much to the brain as to any other part of the body and as we age it is important that we employ strategies to keep our minds sharp.

The most important strategy for keeping a sharp mind is to use it. This can be through reading books, doing puzzles, jigsaw puzzles and crosswords or even taking part in computer games. These activities can include solitary pursuits or be done in a group. The local bridge circle or a game of dominoes will stimulate your brain. The senior's team at my local PTA often wins the trivia quiz night.

To keep your wits sharp you need to have plenty of rest. Lack of sleep will reduce your performance drastically. Most people need eight hours a night, but however much you need you should try to ensure you have that amount every night. Changing the amount you have by keeping the occasional late night or having a lie in will reduce your brainpower the next day.

Most people have cycles of sleep, and these vary from forty-five to ninety minutes. It is best to get complete cycles of sleep. If your cycle is forty-five minutes it is better to get up half an hour early rather than have a lie-in. By staying in bed you will have to get up mid-cycle and will feel groggy and unfit.

Stress in your life reduces your ability to function as well. Using stress-relieving strategies such as yoga or meditation can sharpen your wits. Some meditation techniques take only a few minutes each day and there are even ones that can be done in your car. These can improve your levels of concentration.

There are dietary measures you can take that improve your brain function and sharpen your wits. The essential fatty acids are essential for brain function. These are found in fatty fish such as salmon or tuna. If you don't eat fish take a fish liver oil supplement. Fish oil has so many health benefits that it is important to eat it weekly or take a supplement.

Healthy brain function requires vitamins and antioxidants, so eat a diet rich in varied fruits and vegetables, or take a good supplement. Vitamins A, B, C and E are particularly important. The minerals Zinc, magnesium and selenium have important roles in brain function and memory. To help the memory a diet rich in, or supplements of, glutamine, arginine, lecithin and acetyll carnitine are useful.

For improved performance whilst studying, or to improve memory generally the herbs gingko biloba, garlic and ginseng are helpful.

Your brain requires sugar to function. It is best to eat complex carbohydrates to supply the brain with the sugar it needs on a gradual basis through the day, although a sugary drink or snack will give a short term boost.

Other ways of getting a short-term boost in brain performance are using caffeine or guarana. These are what are found in performance drinks that give a short boost in energy and powers of concentration.

Learn more about this author, Eve Redstone.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Feed your brain and sharpen your mind?
We want to hear your view. Write now!