As students prepare for Spring Break next week, I wanted to remind them to be careful, limit risky behavior, and keep their brains fit. Being able to learn and remember new material is crucial to success in life, let alone college success; so, remember to protect your brain because it is your most valuable resource. Just like any other organ in your body, your brain needs regular care. Higher education gives you plenty of chances to exercise that organ. However, do not let the benefits fade while on break from school. Adopt habits that keep your brain lean and fit for life.
These research-based suggestions for brain fitness are from the Alzheimer’s Association:
- Challenge your brain with new experiences. New experiences give your brain a workout, much like sit-ups condition your abs. Research and plan a trip even if you can’t take travel in the near future, take a dance class if you sit most of the day, or seek out museums, theaters, concerts, and cultural events to expand your horizons. The key is just to do something different so you can see things from a new perspective and experience innovative learning.
- Exercise. Physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain and reduces the risk of diseases, like diabetes, that can impair brain function.
- Eat Well. A diet rich in dark skinned fruits and vegetables boosts your supply of antioxidants, natural chemicals which nourish your brain. Raisins, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, kale, spinach, brussel sprouts, and broccoli are great brain food. You should avoid foods that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol (like most junk and fast food).
- Nourish your social life. By having a network of supportive friends and family, you can dramatically reduce your stress levels. In turn, stress management helps to maintain connections between brain cells. Stay socially active by working, volunteering, and joining clubs.
- Protect your heart. Generally, what is good for your heart is also good for your brain. Both organs benefit from a healthy diet, exercise, adequate sleep, and avoidance of tobacco and abuse of alcohol or drugs. All of these habits reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions that interfere with blood flow to the brain.
- Drink alcohol moderately, if at all. Heavy drinking or drug use affects your memory. In fact, long-term alcoholics tend to develop conditions that impair memory. A recent study demonstrated that teenagers who regularly used marijuana reduced their IQ by eight points compared to other teens who did not use drugs.
By following all of these suggestions, you can protect your most valuable resource, your brain. Do not be stupid while enjoying the revelry of Spring Break, be vigilant about shielding your brain from any harm and make smart choices.
Sources:
“Brain Health.” Alz.org. Alzheimer’s Association, 2014. Web. 4 Mar. 2014.
Ellis, Dave. Becoming a Master Student, 12 ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2009. Print.
Neighmond, Patti. “Marijuana May Hurt The Developing Teen Brain.” Health News from NPR. National Public Radio, 3 Mar. 2014. Web. 4 Mar. 2014.
