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