Did you know that the modern lifestyle is filled with habits that can slowly and fatally harm brain health? It is no secret that the human brain is a complex organ that is vital to our health as it controls thoughts, memory, emotions and bodily functions but there are certain factors that contribute to poor brain health.
Brain at risk:
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Raghavendra Ramdasi, consultant neurosurgeon at Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, explained, “I have observed that many young patients are unknowingly harming their brain health due to certain habits. Inadequate sleep, excessive screen time, lack of physical exercise, unhealthy diet, stress, substance abuse and multitasking are common. Lack of sleep impairs cognitive functions, while junk food lacks the nutrients required for brain development.”
“Excessive stimulation from digital devices can lead to mental fatigue, and chronic stress impairs memory and attention. Additionally, substance abuse damages neural connections, and multitasking hinders deep learning and creativity. It is important to adopt healthy habits to protect brain health and promote long-term cognitive flexibility,” he explained.
How your daily routine is destroying your brain:
Speaking about his expertise, Dr. Vikram Hooded, HOD, Director and Clinical Lead, Interventional Neurology at Narayana Group said, “Habits formed in childhood have several long-term adverse effects on brain health. Frequent screen time, unhealthy diet, and lack of sleep impede cognitive development, sometimes leading to irreversible brain damage.”
He advised, “Parents should monitor screen use, encourage physical activity and interaction with the environment. Ensuring adequate sleep as well as providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients aids in brain development. Consistency in these areas is key. Timely intervention and creating healthy habits now can prevent brain-related problems in the future, laying the foundation for optimal brain function for a lifetime.”
Dr Arvind Bhateja, Chief Neuro and Spine Surgeon, Sparsh Hospital concluded, “The impact of habits that accelerate the brain ageing process in adults between 40 and 50 years should not be overlooked. Poor sleep quality, high levels of stress and a sedentary lifestyle are some of the biggest culprits. Constant stress increases cortisol levels, which, over time, shrinks brain areas related to memory and cognition. Inadequate sleep impedes the brain’s ability to repair itself, while lack of exercise reduces blood flow to critical areas. In addition, patients should avoid highly processed foods and stimulants such as nicotine and other psychoactive substances. I urge 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 the brain ageing process and maintain cognitive health.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.
