The brain is an organ that weighs around 3 pounds and serves as the center of the nervous system in all vertebrate and most of the invertebrate animals. The brain is considered the most complex and important organ in the human body. It helps us perform all the basic and complex activities. The functionality of the brain is what differentiates animals from humans. Our brain is one of the fattest organs in the body and comprises of 60% fat. The brain helps us to learn and remember things, but as we get older, our brain loses the tendency to filter and removes old memories. There are about 100 billion neurons present in the brain that are specially designed cells that transmit information to other cells, muscles, etc.
Our brain serves different purposes and taking care of our brain is as important as taking care of the body. Here we are listing certain things that we should avoid as they can damage your brain.
Sleep Deprivation
Have you ever felt sluggish after a sleepless night? It is because your brain cells are tired and need some rest. Insufficient sleep is a major problem these days, sleep deprivation may cause short-term and long-term effects. It can have a great impact on your glucose levels, memory, etc. It can weaken your memory, concentration, and energy levels.
7 to 8 hours of sleep is absolutely required for your brain cells to perform actively. Otherwise, it becomes difficult for your brain cells to communicate and process information and that can lead to temporary memory lapses and can damage your brain.
Over Eating
The food you eat affects the structure and function of your brain. Your brain requires certain nutrients in order to stay healthy, and it gets those nutrients only through food. But not following a healthy diet and overeating can reduce the functioning of your brain. Especially, high-calorie foods suppress the ability of brain insulin and can lead to diabetes, etc. Overeating can also cause long-term problems such as Alzheimer's, memory loss, etc. So, it is important to maintain the health of your brain by following a healthy diet.
Smoking
Usually, cigarettes contain high levels of nicotine which can be as addictive as heroin and can be really hard to give up. Scientists have also found a chemical compound in the cigarette that can affect the White Blood Cells in the central nervous system leading to several neurological damages. Several studies also show that smoking can directly damage your brain and if you continue smoking it may also have a direct impact on your memory power and IQ. As we get older, we tend to forget things easily and more often due to cognitive decline, but in people who smoke, it can happen earlier than those who do not.
Excess Sugar Intake may Damage Your Brain
According to researches by UCLA, a high level of fructose can affect learning and the ability to understand easily by slowing down the brain. Due to excess sugar intake, the insulin levels may lower and the functioning of the brain can be impaired. High fructose consumption can also increase the risk of depression and anxiety in many people. It can also damage the communication between brain cells and may lead to lowering the memory power, the tendency to understand and acquire knowledge, etc.
There are some habits that you can practice such as maintaining a proper diet, exercising, having a proper sleep schedule, etc. to improve the brain's health. Here are some best foods for the nervous system,
California Poppy Seeds
California poppy is the state flower of California and people use some of its parts as medicine. Poppy seeds are known to deal with neurological disorders including anxiety, insomnia, etc. It contains a chemical that can cause a relaxing sensation to our bodies. Poppy seeds are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and many other minerals that can increase the blood flow. Proper blood flow to your brain can increase the amount of oxygen and other minerals to your brain. It can prevent diseases like Alzheimer's, dementia, etc as it can greatly be helpful in the development of neurons and improve other brain activities. Poppy seeds have other health benefits such as improving your digestion, boosting bone health, etc.
Prickly Pear
Prickly pear cactus A.K.A Nopa or Opuntia is used in many Mexican countries as part of their diet and also as medicine. It has a high amount of fiber and pectin which can help lower the blood sugar levels and increase the functioning of your brain effectively. It is also rich in anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties and helps to deal with symptoms of an enlarged prostate, controlling blood sugar levels, obesity, etc. so, including prickly pear extract in your diet can greatly improve your brain's health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are known to solve brain problems. It helps to build membranes around the brain and body cells which can improve the structure of your brain cells. Studies have also shown that higher levels of omega-3 acids can increase the blood flow to the brain and also had shown better cognitive skills. Your bodies cannot naturally produce omega-3 fatty acids, but it is great for your brain's health. Oily fishes like salmon, tuna, etc are a great source of omega-3 acids. If you want to go vegan then opt for soybeans, flax seeds, etc.
