The Guide to Optimal Brain Health: 10 Essential Questions

When it comes to brain health, the best time to start making changes is now. The American Academy of Neurology recently shared practical advice in their article The Neurologist’s Role in Promoting Brain Health* , published in the journal Neurology . The article highlights how factors like sleep, diet, exercise, and social interactions can have a profound impact on neurological health. Let’s explore 10 key questions.

1. Sleep: Are you getting enough sleep to feel rested?

Sleep is the cornerstone of a healthy brain. Insufficient or poor quality sleep can affect memory, concentration, and emotional well-being.
What to do? Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, wind down before bed, and prioritize quality sleep. A good night's sleep not only recharges your body, but also supports cognitive functions like memory and problem solving.

2. Mood and mental health: How are you feeling emotionally?

Your mental health is as important as your physical health. Anxiety, depression, and chronic stress can significantly affect brain function in the long term.
What to do? Be aware of your mood and mental well-being. Awareness is the first step to identifying strategies (relaxation, meditation, journaling...) to maintain, restore emotional balance, improve concentration and reduce the risks of neurological disorders such as dementia.

3. Nutrition and supplements: Is your nutrition right for your brain?

What you eat feeds your brain. A balanced diet rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), probiotics (fermented foods), lean protein, and good fats supports cognitive health. Good nutrition can also reduce the risk of metabolic conditions that harm the brain.
What to do? Adopt a healthy diet and appropriate supplementation to protect your cognitive health

4. Exercise: Are you physically active?

Physical activity is not only good for your heart, it's essential for your brain. Exercise improves memory, mood and sleep, making it an essential ally for brain health.
What to do? Aim for 150 to 180 minutes of moderate exercise per week, including resistance training twice a week. Even small, regular activities like walking or stretching can make a big difference.

5. Social Interactions: Do you have a strong support network?

Staying connected with friends and family is more than an emotional reward: it’s essential for brain health. Regular social interactions can reduce stress, improve mood, and even slow cognitive decline.
What to do? If you feel isolated, consider joining community groups or reaching out to loved ones.

6. Blood pressure: Is yours under control?

High blood pressure can increase the risk of stroke and cognitive decline. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and discuss management options with your doctor.
What to do? Knowing your numbers is a simple but powerful way to protect your brain.

8. Genetic and metabolic risks: Do you know your family history and personal risks?

Understanding your family history and metabolic health (such as blood sugar and cholesterol levels) can help your doctor tailor preventive measures.
What to do? Genetic predispositions do not determine your future, but knowing them can help you make more informed choices.

9. Infections: Are you up to date with your vaccinations?

Infections, such as those that cause meningitis or other brain-related conditions, can have a serious impact on neurological health. Vaccines are a simple but effective way to protect your brain.
What to do? Make sure you are up to date and have access to reliable information about vaccines.

10. Harmful exposures: Are you reducing your risky habits?

Habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or living in polluted environments can harm your brain. Reducing or eliminating these risks can improve your long-term cognitive health.
What to do? Small changes, reducing your alcohol intake, drinking filtered water... can have significant benefits.

Conclusion: Key Tips for Better Brain Health

Experts agree that focusing on simple things like sleep, exercise, and nutrition can have significant benefits. Consistency is key. Start small: Adopt regular bedtime routines, aim for 10 minutes of daily exercise, and practice mindfulness activities like meditation.

Investing in your brain health today lays the foundation for a brighter, healthier tomorrow. With Daily Energy®, it’s a daily boost of collagen, fiber, probiotics, and 13 vitamins to support your cognitive well-being for years to come.

• Collagen-Brain Health Link: Glycine, abundant in collagen, is an essential amino acid for nervous system function. It acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, helping to calm the brain and improve sleep quality.
  
• Microbiota - brain health link:

  • The gut microbiota is called the “second brain,” because it communicates directly with the central nervous system via the gut-brain axis, influencing cognitive and emotional functions. A balanced microbiota promotes the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which is essential for regulating mood and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety. Imbalances in the microbiota, caused by a diet low in fiber and probiotics or infections, can increase systemic inflammation, negatively affecting memory, concentration, and overall mental health.

• Link vitamins - brain health:

  • B vitamins, including B6, B9 (folate) and B12, play a key role in the production of neurotransmitters and the protection of neurons, thereby supporting memory and emotional balance.

  • Vitamin D, often called the "sunshine vitamin," is essential for mood regulation and may reduce the risk of depression by influencing brain function.

  • Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E protect the brain from oxidative stress, a factor linked to neuronal aging and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
    
    

*Selwa LM, Banwell BL, Choe M, et al. The Neurologist's Role in Promoting Brain Health: Emerging Issues in Neurology. Neurology . 2025;104(1):e210226. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000210226