5 ways to keep your brain in razor-sharp shape

Do you sometimes feel that if you spend just one more hour stalking your ex on Facebook, your brain is going to turn to mush?

Never mind the countless hours of reality TV watching!

Studies have shown that some of the same habits that keep your body healthy can also help keep your mind in tip-top shape.

Here are some of the ways you can keep your brain in razors-sharp shape.

Cut down on sugar
There’s lots of evidence about which foods can sharpen your brain, but there’s also plenty of research on what you should avoid to keep your brain in good shape. You’ll want to limit your intake of simple sugars, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats. Experts say that diets high in these things may mess with insulin levels in the brain and wreak havoc on your memory.

Keep your brain busy
You always hear that your brain is like a muscle – use it or lose it. Studies have suggested that regularly doing brain-stimulating activities such as reading and writing could keep your mind sharp as you age. Number games and brainteasers are great for this!

Catch up on your Zzzzzzs
In a recent study, mice who slept for only short periods of time lost 25 percent of the neurons in their locus coeruleus, the section of their brain associated with alertness and cognitive function. What’s more, napping later didn’t reverse this effect. Try to get into a regular sleeping pattern to keep your brain sharp.

Eat good fats
Studies have shown that people who consumed good fats – such as avocado, nuts and oily fish – had a decreased risk of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia when compared to the people who consumed the least good fat.

Be berry good
Some research has found that people who have a diet rich in berries were less likely to show signs of cognitive decline.