Did you know that our modern lifestyle is full of habits that are slowly and insidiously undermining our brain health? We all know that the human brain is a complex organ that controls thoughts, memories, emotions and bodily functions and plays a central role in our well-being. However, there are several factors that can worsen brain health.
Brain risks:
Speaking to HT Lifestyle, Dr Raghuvendra Ramdasi, Consultant Neurosurgeon, Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, said, “We see many young patients unknowingly harming their brain health due to certain habits. Lack of sleep, excessive screen time, lack of exercise, unhealthy diet, stress, substance abuse and multitasking are some of the common culprits. Lack of sleep hinders cognitive function and junk food lacks the nutrients required for brain development.”
He revealed, “Excessive stimulation from digital devices can lead to mental fatigue, and chronic stress is known to impair memory and concentration. Additionally, substance abuse damages neural connections, and multitasking hinders deep learning and creativity. Developing healthier habits is essential to safeguarding brain health and promoting long-term cognitive resilience.”
How your daily habits are destroying your brain:
Dr Vikram Hadded, Principal Investigator, Director of Interventional Neurology and Clinical Lead at Narayana Group, explains with his expertise: “Habits formed during early childhood can have long-term adverse effects on brain health. Repeated screen time, unhealthy diet and lack of sleep can impair cognitive development and sometimes lead to irreversible brain damage.”
He advises: “Parents should monitor screen use and instead encourage physical activity and engagement with the environment. Feeding a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and ensuring adequate sleep aids brain development. Consistency in these areas is essential. Early intervention and developing healthy habits now can prevent brain-related problems in the future and lay the foundations for optimal brain function throughout life.”
Dr Arvind Bhateja, Chief Neuro & Spine Surgeon, Spars Hospital, concludes, “The impact of habits that accelerate brain ageing in adults aged 40-50 years should not be overlooked. Poor quality sleep, high stress and sedentary lifestyle are the biggest culprits. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels which over time shrinks areas of the brain associated with memory and cognition. Lack of sleep hinders the brain’s ability to repair itself and lack of exercise reduces blood flow to key areas. Patients should also avoid highly processed foods, stimulants like nicotine and other psychoactive drugs. I advise my patients in this age group to prioritise restorative sleep, manage stress through mindfulness and engage in regular physical activity. These changes can significantly slow down brain ageing and maintain cognitive health.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
