Tips for keeping the brain healthy during Autumn and Winter
Staying healthy is much more manageable during the summer months when the weather is nice and allows us to be active outdoors. Being active in the sun helps you maintain fitness and manage weight effectively. The sun also boosts vitamin D levels, which are essential for bone, heart, and immune health. Research shows that our brains are most active during summer, but it’s important to keep our brains healthy all year long. During October the days become shorter and as the colder weather approaches, it becomes crucial to prioritise brain health to ensure cognitive function and overall well-being.
To combat seasonal affective disorder, take proactive steps to support your brain health. Nutrition expert Patrick Holford suggests three key essentials for maintaining a healthy brain. Omega-3 DHA from fish oils and phospholipids like phosphatidyl choline are crucial for brain health. Vitamin B6, B12, and folate found in leafy greens are essential nutrients for brain function. Proper nutrition is like the wood and nails of the brain, with vitamin B acting as the hammer to keep it all together.
Stay Active
Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve blood flow to the brain and boost cognitive function and try indoor exercises like yoga or Pilates to stay active during the colder months. Joining a gym to stay active not only benefits physical health but also supports mental well-being. Engaging in social activities with like-minded people can help keep you sociable and engaged during dark evenings. Make an effort to spend time outdoors whenever possible as exposure to natural light is beneficial for brain health. Ensuring you have the right nutrients is also essential for a healthy brain year-round.
Eat Well
Consuming a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can support cognitive function which include foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts in your diet.
Stay Hydrated
Lack of proper hydration can have a detrimental effect on cognitive abilities, therefore it is important to consume enough water daily and opt for herbal teas or warm lemon water to maintain hydration and warmth during colder months. Our Prophet (PBUH) also advises us that maintaining good health necessitates the presence of moisture to counteract excessive heat. Moisture helps regulate temperature, allowing for the maturation of various bodily functions and the elimination of waste. Without adequate moisture, excessive heat can damage the body and disrupt normal organ function.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Adequate sleep is essential for brain health and cognitive function, so aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night an create a relaxing bedtime routine and avoid phones and screens before bed to promote restful sleep.
Manage Stress
High stress levels can have a detrimental effect on brain health, so practice stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises and take time for self-care activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress. By prioritising brain health through physical activity, a nutritious diet, adequate hydration, quality sleep, and stress management, you can support your cognitive function and overall well-being during the cold season and beyond. Remember to listen to your body and seek professional help if you are experiencing persistent cognitive issues or mental health concerns.
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The adventurous spirit behind the pages of British Muslim magazine. As the Editor-in-Chief, Natasha leads with a passion for exploration and a pen dipped in wanderlust. With a keen eye for halal travel experiences and an insatiable curiosity for new experiences, she brings readers along on captivating journeys to far-flung destinations. Through her vibrant storytelling, Natasha invites readers on enriching adventures, where every experience is a window into the muslim world.
