We all worry about losing our mental sharpness as we age. Even extremely intelligent and successful people lose some of their edge. Alzheimer's disease is the ultimate mind and memory thief, but there are other forms of dementia, and there's also garden-variety cognitive decline.
But you don't have to sit idly and watch your mental sharpness deteriorate. There are techniques you can use to keep your brain fit ... Are you taking advantage of them? Take this quiz to find out how much you know about preserving your mind.
According to a recent study, which area of the world features a native diet that can help preserve your brain health?
The Mediterranean.
In a recent study, a group of patients who were most closely following a Mediterranean-like diet were 36 percent less likely to have areas of brain damage than the group who were least following the diet.
Which of these are considered to be "brain foods?"
A, B and C.
Spinach and other leafy greens, eggs, and salmon are all considered to be "brain food." Salmon is on this list because it's a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Other fatty fishes, like mackerel, herring and halibut are beneficial as well.
Simply going for a walk each day can help keep your mind sharp.
True.
Walking gets your blood circulating, which ensures that your brain will get the nutrients it needs to stay vital. Besides, our brains were built to run at their best when our bodies are also in good shape.
Games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles are fun, but they don't do your brain any good.
False.
It seems that most games -- and really any challenging mental activities -- are good for your brain. Try to incorporate new experiences into your everyday routine. Even something as simple as switching your fork to your off hand can give your brain a jolt.
In a 30 second period, how many pieces of information can the average brain remember?
Seven.
The keys to improving your natural ability to memorize are repetition and mnemonic devices, like breaking information into categories, and using visualization techniques.
For most people, brain development stops at 70 years of age. It's key to maintain good habits and do exercises for your brain before you hit 70.
The brain continues to change and develop for as long as we live. It's never too late to do mind-sharpening activities, and it's also never too late to do damage to your brain with bad habits like smoking and drinking to excess.
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