Lifelong Mental Fitness: A Doctor’s Approach to Long Term Brain Health

Dementia and cognitive decline are threatening the minds and lives of Canadians. As the population ages and the number of dementia cases rises to nearly one million, medical experts are encouraging people of all ages to challenge the myth that cognitive decline is inevitable.?

Naturopathic doctor Colin O’Brien knows that many forms of dementia can be prevented, slowed and even reversed by addressing underlying health conditions and focusing on healthy lifestyle habits early on.??

Building a well-functioning brain can help reduce fatigue and stress, and improve attention span, memory and decision-making processes, supporting your ability to manage challenges and responsibilities calmly and effectively.?

Many young professionals are recognizing this and beginning to embrace a proactive approach. At O’Brien’s practice, this shift has been obvious. “Patients in their 20s, 30s, and 40s are asking how they can start investing in their brain health now. They want to perform better at work, they want to improve their mental health, and they want their brains to stay fit for life.”??

For his patients, Dr. O’Brien recommends three primary focuses:?

1. Ensure your overall health: Addressing basic health needs is the first step to supporting a healthy brain. Chronic conditions, nutrient deficiencies, and even poor eyesight or hearing can impact cognitive function when left untreated. O’Brien advises his patients to start by scheduling regular medical exams and addressing any issues early on. Take your supplements, control your sugar intake, and wear your glasses. A healthy body is the key foundation your brain needs to function optimally.?
2. Challenge Your Mind: We’ve all heard how sudoku and crossword puzzles can strengthen your brain, but O’Brien recommends that we push ourselves even further. “Don’t just stick to your usuals. Learning a new game, puzzle or skill is excellent for stretching your brain and creating new neural connections." The idea is to step out of your comfort zone by trying new activities that challenge you in different ways, whether that's learning an instrument, taking dance classes, or trying out painting and other crafts.??
3. Exercise for Brain Strength: Physical activity acts as a powerful tool for brain health. By increasing cerebral blood flow and providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the brain, exercise supports the production of new neurons, enhancing your ability to focus, make decisions, and even making your brain bigger and stronger. “Anything from a brisk walk to learning moves in a choreographed group fitness class can have significant benefits,” O’Brien notes. “You don’t need to be marathon runner to get results. The key is consistency.”?

Strong cognitive health is a lifelong pursuit. The habits and choices you live by today can impact your quality of life and cognitive abilities for years to come. Take the time to invest in yourself and stay mentally fit for life.?

Learn more from Dr. Colin O’Brien and other health and wellness experts with the GoodLife Healthy Workplace On-Demand Support Package. Early Bird registration is available until September 20, 2024.

Register today: https://lnkd.in/gZhnCEZU?