The brain workout: HOW TO KEEP YOURS SHARP

From improving your diet to ditching unhealthy vices, there are plenty of ways to boost your grey matter

As soon as we wake, our brains are bombarded with information from news platforms and social media, which has a negative impact on our focus, concentration, and productivity. Add a lack of sleep, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle, and it's hardly surprising that our brain health is suffering as a result. The pandemic and cost of living crisis hasn't helped either. In fact, research shows that long-term stress accelerates cognitive decline, leading to difficulties with memory and problem-solving. So, how well are you looking after your brain? Take our quiz to find out.

THE TEST

1 HOW DO YOU SLEEP?

A Like a baby

B I'm an insomniac

C I like an afternoon nap most days

D I often wake up several times throughout the night

AIM FOR: ANSWER A

Sleeping well helps prevent our brains from feeling overworked and unable to function properly. If you are a problem sleeper, avoid having electronic devices in the bedroom. The glow that they emit suppresses the production of melatonin, which interferes with dropping off and remaining asleep.

In need of a daily siesta? This isn't a bad thing. Napping can actually improve your memory, shows a study from China. Just make sure you're not sleeping for any longer than 90 minutes, as this can have the opposite effect.

2 DO YOU HAVE A SET SLEEP ROUTINE?

A No

B I browse my phone

C I have a regular bedtime I stick to

D I tend to fall asleep on the sofa