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It’s understandable to think that once you begin to lose your memory, you might not be able to improve memory function. However, in most cases there are practices or solutions for dealing with memory lapses, and you can actually improve your memory. You may want to consult your health care professional to receive an accurate diagnosis and a recommended treatment. A doctor may be able to determine the cause of your memory loss.
Memory loss can be reversed, depending on the cause. A few of the types that can often be reversed are caused by depression, thyroid problems, alcohol abuse, dehydration, and side effects of medication.
Since we will all age, it’s ideal for you to take steps in preventing cognitive loss early. One practice which compensates for memory loss is staying socially active. By sharing strong ties with others and having quality face-to-face interactions, you reduce your stress and lower your risk of experiencing memory loss.
Stress management is another great practice, and solutions vary based on the individual. The issue of handling stress could be solved simply by organizing your day in a planner or even taking a few minutes each day to practice meditation. For cases of stress or anxiety that are more severe, seeking professional help from a therapist, psychiatrist, or wellness center is suggested and would be in your best interest.
Your physical health must also be maintained to have a well functioning brain. Beginning a regular exercise routine is a practice shown to be effective in reducing your chance of dementia by up to 50 percent. Along with exercise, diet also has dramatic effects on your cognitive health and aids with efforts to improve memory function. Foods like fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants keep your brain cells healthy. Omega-3 fats like those found in salmon and walnuts also support brain health
Lifestyle habits like smoking increase the risk of vascular disorders which decrease the flow of oxygen to your brain. A decreased supply of oxygen deteriorates your brain cells and actually speeds up the process of age-induced memory loss.
Just as you can train your physical body, you can also train your brain through a wide range of exercises. Some simple exercises you can perform to improve your brain power are to play unfamiliar, challenging games involving strategy such as Sudoku, reading a newspaper or a thought-provoking book, or actively making a point to learn something new. Learn a new language or challenge yourself to take up a new musical instrument. Planning and designing projects are also a great stimulants for your brain.
In addition to these activities, one of the most important aspects of your lifestyle and good brain health is proper sleep. Did you know adequate sleep and good quality sleep are crucial to the process of forming and storing new memories?
All factors considered, once you begin to suspect your memory function may be diminishing, take a step back and observe your lifestyle. Practicing a healthy lifestyle is the best way to improve memory function and protect and preserve good overall brain function. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Helping You Achieve Major Wellness!
Cheryl A Major
I’m author, health coach, and entrepreneur Cheryl A Major, and I would love to connect with you! Be sure to follow me on Twitter so you won’t miss my daily postings for health, wellness and mindset!
