Friday, November 9, 2007

Memory boosting

Have you been a scatter-brain lately? Well, I always have. Together with stress and hectic work load, things just got worst when my memory relapse happens. Usually our memories will deteriorate further when we got older. But sometimes we can find some people who just have such good memories even at old age. I thought it has something to do with your genes. No? Well, I am not exactly sure. Hence, I found a good memory boosting tips from a magazine.

Up antioxidant intake. An antioxidant-rich diet improves memory by lowering free radical damage. So, protect your brain cell by munching on cranberries, plums, broccoli, beets, oranges, red bell peppers and cherries. Hint: bright and intense coloured fruits and veggies are good for you!

Play an instrument. Scientists from University of Hong Kong state that instrument playing improves concentration and ability to remember information such as numbers, words and other mental tasks.

Get enough sleep. Researchers from the Harvard Medical School have found that lack of sleep affects the brain’s frontal cortex which control speech, memory and the ability to solve problems. That’s why it is so tough to concentrate or do anything really, when you are deprived of sleep.

Less TV. Trade the idiot box with crossword puzzles, books, or board games to keep brain active and curb mental disease such as Alzheimer’s. (On my personal note, does computer = TV? Can we trade the idiot box with blogging? )

Go Mediterranean. Mediterranean diets with a heavy mix of olive oil, butter, cheese and fish are rich in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Scientists from the Italian Longtitudinal Study of Aging found that those on this diet scored better results in remembering things, paying attention and solving problems.

No comments: