How do I look after my Brain?

We are all walking miracles. To be honest, it should be an impossibility that we function as we do. But somehow, complex life has evolved on this planet, and our species has become the dominant force on Earth.

Much of that is down to our superior brains.
The brain is one of the largest, and certainly the most complex, organs in the human body. IIt is made up of more than 100 billion nerves that communicate in trillions of connections called synapses.

The brain is made up of specialized areas:
The "Cortex" is the outermost layer of brain cells - and it is where thinking and voluntary movements begin.
The "brain stem" is between the spinal cord and the rest of the brain. Basic functions like breathing and sleep are controlled here.
The "basal ganglia" are a cluster of structures in the centre of the brain, which coordinate messages between other brain areas.
The "cerebellum" is at the base and back of the brain and is responsible for coordination and balance.

The brain is also divided into several lobes - frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital - and these deal with problem solving, sensation, memory, hearing and visual processing, among many other things.

So it is crucial we look after our brain. How do we do this?

Your brain needs a steady supply of energy, but it can only get this from a type of sugar called Glucose. This comes from the carbohydrates you eat. But some carbs are better than others. These include wholemeal foods, pasta, porridge and pulses, all of which take time for your body to break down, so release their glucose slowly and steadily.  Other carbs, like chocolate, biscuits and sugary snacks are sadly not good for your brain. They release their sugar so quickly that your brain will peak and then crash afterwards.

Your brain needs a good supply of oxygen, and it can get this through exercise. Movement and flexibility is great, and being fitter pumps the oxygen-rich blood through every capillary. Studies show that exercise improves focus and the memory capacity. Lack of it can age the brain prematurely.
It also needs to stay hydrated, so water is essential.

Finally, although scientists are not sure why exactly, sleep is great to allow the brain to put itself back to order.

HMHB says:  we are constantly told that a healthier lifestyle is good for you, but this is exactly the reason why. Our organs and bodies rely on the nutrients in our diets, the energy we get from our food, and the exercise we complete daily, to stay healthy and keep us alive. What a great reason to make changes to your life!!