Habits that can harm your brain

Seven habits that can unexpectedly harm your brain

We usually have some habits we consider harmless but are extremely harmful to our brains. Here is a list of seven habits that can harm your brain.

Cell phones

A study on rats revealed a link between brain cancer and the use of cell phones. However, you should not throw out your smartphone. Instead, doctors advise you to use a speaker or a headset for talking and to not put the phone near your pillow while you sleep.  

Alcohol

According to researchers, alcohol consumption destroys connections between brain cells. However, there is good news: for those who stop drinking alcohol, the brain eventually returns to normal.  

Smoking

Smoking leads not only to cancer but also to a decrease in the thickness of the cerebral cortex. Such damage can significantly affect mental abilities because it is this part of the brain that, among other things, is responsible for thinking. Top story: schizophrenia-the-white-mans-disease

Junk food

Too much fast food in the diet and constant overeating negatively affect connections between brain cells and, as a result, the training and formation of short-term and long-term memory. In addition, eating too much fast food may cause depression.  

Lack of Sleep

Lack of sleep may be a cause of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. It’s best to have regular sleeping hours. If you have trouble with sleep, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and electronics in the evening, and start a soothing bedtime ritual.  

 Too Much Alone Time

Humans are wired for social contact. It’s not about how many Facebook friends you have, what matters is a real sense of connection. People who have that with even just a few close friends are happier and more productive. They’re also less likely to suffer from brain decline and Alzheimer’s. If you feel alone, call some friends or start something new like salsa dancing, tennis, bridge that involves other people.

Lack of exercise

The longer you go without regular exercise, the more likely you are to have dementia. You’re also more likely to get diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, all of which may be linked to Alzheimer’s. You don’t have to start running marathons, a half-hour in the garden or a brisk walk around the neighborhood will work. The important thing is to do it at least 3 days a week.