Some daily habits may not appear harmful but can cause significant brain damage. Examples include lack of sleep and spending too much time alone. Based on information from the U.S. health and medical website WebMD, here are eight harmful habits that can lead to brain damage.
1. Spending too much time alone
Spending excessive time alone can harm the brain. Humans need social interaction. The number of friends on social media is irrelevant; genuine connections matter. Having just a few close friends can help you feel happy and productive. Such individuals are less likely to experience brain decline or develop Alzheimer’s disease.
If you feel lonely, try calling a friend or engaging in activities that involve others, such as joining a sports club or hobby group.
2. Lack of sleep
Not getting enough sleep significantly increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is essential. If you have trouble sleeping, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and electronic devices in the evening, and create a comfortable bedtime routine.
3. Eating too much junk food
Overindulging in junk food, which includes high-calorie, low-nutrition items like instant and fast food, can harm your brain. People who frequently consume burgers, fries, chips, and sodas have smaller brain regions associated with learning, memory, and mental health.
On the other hand, foods like berries, whole grains, nuts, and leafy greens help preserve brain function and delay cognitive decline.
4. Listening to music at high volume
Using headphones or earbuds at maximum volume can cause permanent hearing damage. Hearing loss in older adults is linked to Alzheimer’s disease, brain tissue loss, and other severe brain problems.
Keep the volume below 60% of the maximum on any device to protect your hearing and avoid listening for more than two hours at a time.
5. Not exercising
Failing to exercise regularly increases the risk of dementia as well as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure—all of which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. You don’t need to start with intense activities like marathons. A 30-minute walk in the park or brisk walking around your neighborhood is a good start. Aim to move at least three times a week.
6. Smoking
Smoking causes the brain to shrink, impairs memory, and doubles the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. It also leads to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and high blood pressure.
7. Not getting enough sunlight
Lack of sunlight can lead to depression and slow brain function. Sunlight plays a critical role in keeping the brain functioning well.
8. Overeating
Overeating can prevent the brain from building strong neural connections needed for thinking and memory. It may also lead to health risks like heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
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