Forget where you left your keys this morning? Don’t worry, it’s probably not a sign of Alzheimer’s – everyone’s a little forgetful at times.

While there’s still a lot to learn about the many mysteries of the brain, scientists have worked out a few ways to help keep our minds healthy.

    • Things such as transfats and saturated fats, common in processed foods, can negatively affect the brain’s synapses. Synapses connect the brains neurons and are important to learning and memory. On the other hand, a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in salmon, walnuts and kiwi fruit, can give the synapses a boost and help fight against mental disorders from depression to dementia. Vitamin B6 helps to sharpen your response levels and concentration.
    • Cardiovascular exercise can also improve your memory, make you think more clearly and decrease the risk of developing cognitive diseases, as it triggers the release of chemicals called growth factors that make the brain’s neurons stronger and healthier. And don’t forget to stretch: Stretching can help reduce stress, which can impact the memory centres of your brain.
    • Sleep gives your brain a chance to replay the memories of the day and consolidate them for long-term storage. One study suggested that the brain can do its reviewing much faster when you’re asleep than when you’re wide awake. A 90-minute mid-afternoon nap can help solidify long-term memories, such as events or skills you are trying to master.
    • Learn to take deep breaths and get fresh air every now and then. Stale air and stuffy buildings can make you feel as foggy and stale as the office broom cupboard.
    • Zinc is thought to improve the functioning of your neurones, the component of every nerve in your body. Good sources include oysters, beans and red meat.
    • Cut back on caffeine and alcohol. When you need to focus, too much caffeine will over-stimulate you. Alcohol simply makes you fuzzy and forgetful, and not just temporarily! It also kills brain cells.
    • Stay stimulated. By constantly learning new things, you keep your brain working. Flex your mind like a muscle. Play Scrabble and Trivial Pursuit, do crossword puzzles, learn a new language or sign up for an adult education course. It’s been speculated that people who utilise their brains build up reserves of synapses.

Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours a day if you want to know more about mental wellbeing.