Food for Thought
Which of the following are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and good for the brain?
A) Avocados
B) Flax Seeds
C) Salmon
D) Apples
E) Spinach
What are B) flax seeds and C) salmon?
Called "soda" or "Coke" in some places, this sugary carbonated beverage is best to enjoy in limited quantities for brain health.
What is "Pop?"
This is the best physical activity for preserving a healthy brain.
What is any physical activity that you will do consistently?
For dementia risk, good sleep seems to be especially critical for brain health. During sleep the brain is resting but it does maintain some activity. It continues to do these things.
What is create dreams, cause physical movements during sleep, maintain respirations and other involuntary muscle activity?
Daily Double!
These two heavy metals are particularly toxic to the brain.
Which type of oil, rich in monounsaturated fats, is good for brain health?
A) Olive oil
B) Coconut oil
C) Vegetable oil
D) Palm oil
What is olive oil?
Formal education at any age is good for the brain. Classes at senior centers, community colleges and offered free online through universities and GetSetUp may include this anxiety-inducing surprise test, though.
What is a "pop" quiz?
This is when it is too late to change your health habits, like staying active.
What is never too late to change?
Researchers have found that interrupted sleep increases risk of dementia. Individuals who chronically don’t get enough sleep increase their risk of developing dementia by:
A) 40%
B) 60%
C) 30%
D) 50%
What is D) 50%?
This substance which is toxic to brain cells is the most commonly abused drug in America. It must be used in moderation or avoided entirely.
What is alcohol?
Which of the following is a good source of antioxidants that can help reduce brain inflammation and promote cognitive function?
A) Cola (soda)
B) Green tea
C) Orange juice
D) Coffee
What is green tea?
We should eat dark green leafy vegetables, like the spinach famously fueling this tough cartoon character, at least once a day along with another vegetable.
Who is "Pop"eye?
Exercise protects against these other diseases which negatively affect the brain
What is high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol?
Two causes of sleep deprivation that can be treated.
What are sleep apnea and insomnia?
These things are sources of air pollution which are hazardous toxins to the brain. Name two.
What is cigarette smoke, smog, wildfire smoke, industrial air pollutants?
Which type of grains is high in fiber and helps improve blood flow to the brain?
A) White rice
B) Instant oatmeal
C) Quinoa
D) White bread
E) Brown rice
What are C) quinoa and E) brown rice?
Whole grains, like this snack that was eaten as early as 3600 BCE by Puebloan peoples in New Mexico, should be eaten at least three times a day.
What is "pop"corn?
This is the opposite of (antithesis to) physical activity.
What is sitting, immobility, watching too much TV, a sedentary life-style?
Good quality sleep is crucial for these two reasons.
What is slowing the level of metabolic activity in the brain and providing time to cleanse the brain of toxins?
Taking more than seven different medications seriously raises the risk of potentially hazardous drug interactions causing confusion or trouble with balance among other side effects. Four classes of medications are particularly harsh for people with dementia. Name two.
What are opiates (pain killers), tricyclic antidepressants ( Elavil, amitriptyline), antianxiety medication (benzodiazepines, Valium, Librium, Ativan), anticholinergic medications (Benadryl, sleep aides, bladder control medications, antihistamines)?
This antioxidant-rich fruit is known for its potential to improve memory and cognitive function
A) Blueberries
B) Bananas
C) Grapes
D) Strawberries
E) Pomegranates
What are A) blueberries and E) pomegranates?
Air pollution, often found in cities with a higher one of these, can be a risk factor for dementia. Install air filters and avoid going outside when the air quality is low to reduce your risk.
What is a "pop"ulation?
Daily Double!
Exercise benefits the brain in these two ways.
Lack of sleep contributes to aggravating these other diseases that are linked to dementia. Name three.
What are high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, anxiety, chronic stress?
These items used in the home contain chemical substances which can be toxic to the brain. List two.
What are volatile organic air fresheners, cooking smoke especially from red meats, new furniture (varnishes), paints, incense?