Did you know that the brain doesn't have multiple ways to rid itself of toxins like the rest of our body? During the day, the toxins and metabolic waste products build up slowing down our brain processes. Over time this build up can lead to brain fog, forgetfulness, depression and a greater risk of Alzheimers and other brain diseases.
The only system the brain has to recover from our day to day activities is the glymphatic system. This system removes waste by washing your brain with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It's a big word that basically means clear liquid that surrounds the brain and acts as a cushion for protection. As we age this system becomes 40% less effective! In fact, every decade after your 50th birthday, your body pumps 5% less CSF through the brain! Holy smokes...the odds are not looking good. So how can we preserve this self cleaning cycle for as long as possible?
We know that wellness is more than just what we eat!
SLEEP: The gymphatic system is 90% more active and clears waste 200% faster when you're asleep rather than awake. It's a shame that most of us are chronically sleep deprived. Make sleep a priority and sleep on your side. Sleeping on your side creates an opening effect which makes for deeper cleaning.
EXERCISE: The best exercise is the one that you'll actually do. One way to get the CSF pumping is to gently flex the spine for at least 5 minutes daily--think Cat-Cow yoga pose.
FOOD: Eat foods rich in antioxidants. As we age, our brain cells begin to oxidize and we need the nutrients of these foods to protect our cells. Don't forget to eat your fish and take your Omegas! This is my favorite blend. Why? Because it's the blend found in nature and there's no fishy taste. The brain is 60% fat. Feed it what it needs! Taking omegas 3s has proven to improve mild cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms. You can find my favorite omega HERE.
CONNECTION: Spend more time with the people you love and those who love you. Research says that having deep connections with others can protect you against memory loss, and keeps you in stimulating conversations.
MENTAL FITNESS: Use it or loose it friends. Learn something new--anything new to keep those brain cells growing and decrease dementia. Once you've learned it, teach it to someone else. That's the ultimate in mental fitness!
Keep yourself active mentally and physically. Pay attention to recovery and sleep well. There's no one perfect diet, but get your 7-9 servings of fruits and veggies and protect that beautiful brain of yours. Comment and let me know how you protect yourself against the signs of aging.