A prominent neurologist has warned about two daily habits that damage brain cells over time. The brain serves as the control center in the body, responsible for everything from memory and decision-making to emotions and movement. However, according to the "Times of India", many daily habits damage the brain and its neural connections. Neurologist Robert Love explains that some common activities considered harmless might have serious impacts on cognitive health, including:
Smoking and its effects on the brain
Smoking is linked to the lungs and heart, but its relation to the brain is less known. According to Dr. Love, smoking accelerates brain aging, impairs cognitive functions, and increases the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Nicotine and other harmful substances found in cigarettes reduce blood flow to the brain, hindering the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. This can easily lead to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and slow thinking.
Studies have documented that long-term smokers tend to exhibit shrinkage in certain brain areas, especially those related to memory and learning. Smoking also promotes inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, contributing to cognitive decline. Quitting this habit at any age significantly reduces these risks, and even helps the brain regain some of its lost functions over time.
Sleep deprivation and cognitive decline
Many people sacrifice sleep to meet the demands of work, social life, or personal life, without realizing its impact on the brain. In fact, frequent sleep deprivation can affect the brain's mechanisms for self-repair. Sleep helps consolidate memories, eliminate toxins, and maintain overall cognitive functions. According to Dr. Love, chronic lack of sleep weakens concentration, slows reactions, and affects choices and decisions. Long-term sleep deprivation may increase the risk of dementia and other cognitive disorders.
Sleep deprivation also leads to increased stress hormone levels that destroy nerve cells and reduce brain plasticity, or its ability to adapt and form new connections. Dr. Love recommends getting good sleep from 7 to 9 hours each night, with a consistent sleep schedule. This can be improved by establishing a soothing bedtime routine, reducing screen time before bed to support brain health.
Maintaining a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment can also promote restorative rest. Additionally, regular physical activity, mindful breathing, and reducing caffeine intake later in the day can also help improve sleep quality and support long-term cognitive health.
Tips for protecting the brain
Dr. Love recommends several steps to maintain brain health, including:
• Avoid smoking: This practice, over time, may lead to other irreversible health issues.
• Good sleep: It is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a conducive sleep environment.
• Important activities: Exercise, reading, solving puzzles, and social interaction have been proven to maintain brain health.
• Healthy diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and whole foods should be followed.
