A study by UCLA researchers found that people can improve their brain function after just 14 days of following some simple, healthy lifestyle strategies. Incorporating healthy food, physical activity, stress reduction, and memory exercises seem to improve cognitive function.
In the study, participants were divided into two groups- a control group that did not change behaviors and one that incorporated modifications to improve health and mental function. After only 14 days of following the regimen, participants’ brain metabolism slowed down in the working memory regions, which means the brain was not working as hard to accomplish its tasks.

Here are some of the health strategies participants worked in into their daily routines:
• Daily walks.

• Memory exercises, such as crossword puzzles and brain teasers were worked on throughout the day.

• Five small meals a day in order to prevent drops in blood glucose levels, because glucose is the main source of energy for the brain, Participants also ate diets rich in omega-3 fats, anti-oxidants and low glycemic carbohydrates like whole grains.

• Daily relaxation exercises to prevent the release of cortisol, a hormone that can impair memory and damage memory cells.