The brain is not taken care of with pills, but with these habits

Four out of ten Spaniards take supplements “for memory”according to a OCU survey (Organization of Consumers and Users) of 2021. Miracle exercises and promises of quick results are also circulating on the Internet.

However, “science shows us that the brain takes care of itself with habits, not with fashionsthat small sustained changes in time They have great impact and? it’s never too late to start taking care of your brain,” says Dr. Lucía Vidorreta Ballesteros, specialist in neurology at the Quirónsalud San José Hospitalwho also lists the main care that helps preserve cognitive function:

• Sleep well. During sleep the brain works. Memories are consolidated, metabolic waste is eliminated and emotional function is regulated. Some studies they conclude that Chronically little and poor sleep is associated with worse memory and greater neurological risk.
• Physical exercise. Regular physical activity improves cerebral blood flow, stimulates the formation of new neurons and reduces the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Population jobs point out that exercise is one of the most powerful neuroprotective factors known. And there is no need to run marathons: walking at a good pace already provides benefits.
• Learn new things. The brain needs challenges: languages, music, new skills or even changing small routines. Novelty strengthens more than repeating familiar tasks.
• Social relations. Social life activates multiple brain networks and reduces stress. Loneliness, on the other hand, is associated with a greater risk of cognitive deterioration, according to this article.

• balanced diet. There are no magic foods. What science does support is a varied diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and fish, and low in ultra-processed foods and sugars. Supplements are only useful when there are demonstrated deficits and always under medical indication.

What science does not support It is the intake of “memory” pills without medical indication, isolated games without lifestyle changes or quick solutions without consistency.

“The brain changes throughout life and that’s good news. Healthy habits, cognitive stimulation and preventive check-ups with Neurology help preserve it,” concludes Dr. Vidorreta.