How to Exercise Your Brain

For years, science has told us that we are only as smart as the genes we are given. Everyone is handed an IQ number when they are young, and that's that.

But a new study by neuroscientists Junko A. Arai, Shaomin Li and colleagues at Tufts University has turned this theory on its head. These smart scientists (pun intended) have been performing experiments on lab mice. And they've discovered that living in a stimulating environment can overcome the limitations of a genetic defect that impairs long-term memory.

So what does this mean for people? Well, basically you can get smarter. All you have to do is work at it.

Exercise More

According to Scientific American, the way to get smarter is to build more neurons. These brain cells are responsible for storing the memories that you gain when you learn new things. And when you exercise, you increase the number of neurons that your brain produces and the increased blood flow to your brain keeps them alive longer. Studies have shown that those who exercise are better at learning and memorizing all sorts of things. And the good news is that its never too late. So even if you've spent your life as a couch potato, you can turn it all around just by walking the dog a little longer every day.

Eat Healthier Food

Most of us know that saturated fat is bad for your body. But, did you know that it is bad for your brain too? Scientists discovered that mice who were fed diets high in unsaturated fat underperformed on learning and memory tests, and they've known for a while that humans who live on such diets have higher risks of developing dementia as they grow older.

So what foods are good for your brain? You guessed it. Fruits and vegetables. They contain antioxidants that not only keep your body looking younger but keep your brain younger too.

Drink More Coffee

I'm sure I won't be the only person who is excited to discover this. Studies have shown that two cups of coffee can increase your short-term memory as well as your reaction time. Plus, it increases your attention span and protects against memory decline in older women.

Play Brain Games

Traditionally, playing games has been seen as a waste of time. But, as it turns out certain games actually build brain power. So, before you tell the kids to put the video games down consider this: people who play a few hours a week (not all day long) have faster brains, better hand-eye coordination, longer attention spans and better social skills.

But if you're still wary about all the time your kids spend in front of the Wii, consider introducing them to other games: crossword puzzles are great for increasing memory and language skills; Sudoku puzzles build memory as well and the planning involved in getting all those numbers in the right boxes improves concentration.