Bad Habits That Can Hurt Your Brain

6 bad habits that can affect brain healthRegardless of the awareness of the importance of brain health, many people ignore the fact that certain habits can increase its deterioration and cause several disorders.

Although cognitive disorders are linked to factors such as genetics and age, certain daily habits can also influence their occurrence.

The problem is that many people do not know how to properly care for this organ and, despite the recommendations, keep certain habits that increase its aging.

As a result, it causes damage to neurons and brain tissue. This affects the brain’s abilities and interferes with the functions necessary for a good quality of life.

1. Consumption of excessive amounts of sugar

This ingredient, found in many foods in our diet, reduces the production of chemicals in the brain and affects its function over time.

Daily consumption of refined sugar is one of the causes of anxiety, depression, and dementia.

  • Choose natural sweeteners such as honey, coconut sugar, or stevia.
  • Check labels and choose alternatives with less sugar.

2. Skipping breakfast is bad for brain health

Eating a healthy breakfast every day is one of the most important habits for maintaining a strong, healthy, and youthful brain.

This meal, one of the most important, provides the body with a large content of necessary nutrients, which allows you to stay active throughout the day.

Skipping it or substituting unhealthy options can increase your risk of suffering from brain health disorders related to metabolism, memory, and emotional resilience.

In addition, given that the energy level is disturbed, the activity of neurons decreases, and concentration becomes difficult.

Plan your weekly breakfast and make sure it includes:

  • vitamins
  • minerals
  • dietary fibers
  • protein
  • omega-3 fatty acids
  • antioxidants

3. Smoking

These toxic substances accelerate the aging process of the brain and, in addition to increasing the risk of cancer, interfere with cognitive functions.

These also affect former smokers, who may develop conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

  • Quit smoking as soon as possible and develop healthy habits to control anxiety.
  • Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke.

4. Drinking water

Insufficient water consumption is one of the factors affecting the premature deterioration of brain tissue.

Dehydration lowers energy levels, affects mood, and makes concentration difficult.

This is because the brain is made up mostly of water, which means that its reduction interrupts its functions.

The lack of fluid also affects the health of blood circulation and therefore hinders the process of oxygenation in the brain cells.

  • Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.
  • Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables that contain a lot of water.
  • Choose teas, juices, and other natural drinks.

5. Bad sleep

Because the brain cannot rest for a sufficient period, the functions of the frontal lobe are reduced and affect creative thinking.

At the same time, the level of stress hormones increases, which reduces the ability to solve daily tasks.

  • Sleep for at least 8 hours.
  • Do not use electronic devices before going to bed.
  • Eat a light dinner 2 or 3 hours before bed.

6. Impact of polluted environments

To perform all of its functions without interference, the brain needs a constant supply of oxygen to ensure that energy levels are maintained.

However, due to polluted environments, the transport of oxygen to cells can become difficult.

This reduces the efficiency of cognitive work, which increases the risk of diseases such as dementia.

  • Avoid exposure to contaminated environments, and in case of exposure, take precautions.
  • Try to walk in nature more often, where you can breathe in the fresh air.

As you can see, even if some habits seem harmless, they can have different consequences for brain health.

Try to eliminate these habits as soon as possible and follow our recommendations.

Picture Credit: VistaCreate