Keep Your Brain Young: Tips from a Neuroscientist

American neuroscientist Emily McDonald has published several tips to help prevent symptoms like forgetfulness and brain fog. Among her advice, she suggests steering clear of processed foods and avoiding mobile phone use right after waking up.

McDonald explained that you shouldn’t start your day by immediately checking your phone after waking up, but instead wait at least 20 minutes. According to her, this transition from sleep to consciousness is crucial for the brain: “Waking up impacts dopamine release in the body, creating an urge to grab the phone right away.” She also recommended turning off TVs, laptops, and phones an hour before bedtime.

The scientist also pointed out that processed foods negatively affect the brain, linking them to “cognitive aging,” which leads to brain fog and forgetfulness. Instead of consuming processed foods, opt for healthier options rich in essential nutrients.

To maintain a youthful brain, McDonald emphasized the importance of avoiding negative thoughts. “What a person tells themselves changes their worldview. If someone tells themselves that today is going to be great, it will be, sending a message of happiness to the brain," she concluded.

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