Neuroscientist Shares 3 Brain Health No-Go’s: “This is why I avoid using my phone in the morning”

In today’s fast-paced world, taking care of our brain health has become a top priority for many. As technology continues to shape our daily lives, it’s essential to understand how our habits impact our brain function and overall well-being.

A distinguished neuroscientist spills the beans on three practices she avoids to protect her brain.

This isn’t just another boring lecture – it’s an eye-opening revelation that can help us all boost our brainpower and live healthier lives!

1. The Morning Phone Check

Neuroscientist Shares 3 Brain Health No-Go's: “This is why I avoid using my phone in the morning" » phone check morning ss417631258
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“Whenever you wake up in the morning, your brain waves transition from theta to alpha. This means that our subconscious mind is in a more programmable state.”

The alpha state is associated with relaxation and heightened receptivity to information.

Our minds are more open to absorbing new ideas and concepts during this time. It is a state of calm focus that allows us to set the tone for the day ahead.

As we immerse ourselves in the morning environment, our brains are particularly susceptible to external influences, including the content we consume.

In today’s digital age, one common habit is to reach for our phones immediately upon waking up. However, doing so may have unintended consequences on our mindset and overall well-being.

Engaging with social media, news, or other content during this critical window could potentially fill our minds with information that may not align with our desired goals or intentions for the day.

“The content you consume during this time will have a greater impact on your mindset. And messes up our dopamine for the rest of the day so that we continue to check our phones”

Engaging with negative or stressful content in the morning can have a lasting impact on our mental well-being. This is due to the way our brain’s dopamine system functions. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.

When we encounter something pleasurable, like engaging with positive and uplifting content, our brain releases dopamine, creating a sense of satisfaction and well-being. However, consuming negative or addictive content, such as social media feeds filled with comparison, unrealistic expectations, or distressing news, can also trigger dopamine release.

While this might not seem harmful initially, it can lead to a pattern of seeking more of that content throughout the day to maintain those dopamine levels.

This, in turn, may result in compulsive checking of our phones and continuously seeking validation or stimulation, even when it doesn’t serve our well-being.

2. The Power of Positive Self-Talk

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“What you say to yourself matters, and the more you put that into your brain, the more it gets wired in. And what’s wired in is what we manifest,”

The power of our internal dialogue should not be underestimated, as what we say to ourselves profoundly impacts our lives.

When we consistently feed our minds with positive thoughts, they become wired into our thinking patterns. This wiring influences our actions, behaviors, and even the outcomes we manifest in our lives.

Positive psychology research supports that adopting a positive mindset can significantly benefit our mental well-being.

Engaging in self-affirming thoughts can boost self-confidence and overall happiness. We enhance our cognitive function and emotional resilience when we consciously nurture a positive outlook.

Science also corroborates the link between positive emotions and improved psychological and physical health. Studies cited on sciencedirect.com suggest that experiencing positive emotions can have a wide range of positive effects on our nervous systems, both centrally and peripherally.

3. Highly Processed Foods & Brain Health

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“Number 3 is eating highly processed foods. There’s plenty of science now to support that what you eat impacts your brain, but especially highly processed foods lead to brain aging, and we don’t want that,”

The impact of diet on brain health is an area of growing scientific interest. Research has consistently shown that what we eat can significantly influence our cognitive function and overall brain health.

When it comes to highly processed foods, the consequences can be particularly concerning. Processed foods often contain refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and various artificial additives.

Consuming such a diet can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation in the brain can have detrimental effects on cognitive function over time.

Additionally, oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body.

High levels of free radicals can damage cells, including brain cells, which may contribute to accelerated brain aging and cognitive decline. A diet rich in processed foods can also lead to imbalances in gut health. Emerging research indicates that the gut-brain axis is crucial to brain health and mental well-being.

A diet high in processed foods can negatively affect the gut microbiome, potentially leading to further cognitive implications.

Public Insights & Reactions

Neuroscientist Shares 3 Brain Health No-Go's: “This is why I avoid using my phone in the morning" » Neuroscientist Reveals 3 Crucial Brain Health No Gos 1
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The video has provided invaluable insights into preserving and enhancing brain health.

By avoiding phone usage in the morning, practicing positive self-talk, and making healthier food choices, individuals can take tangible steps toward a more cognitively resilient and fulfilled life.

The impact of these simple adjustments can be transformative, influencing our mental clarity and overall well-being.

As a result, it attracted significant viewers who left varying reactions to the neuroscientist’s insights.

One comment reads,

“Could you go into detail about why it’s bad to check your phone as soon as you wake up? why is it bad? how long to wait? What do you do instead?”

Another viewer wrote,

“Mind-body connection is so real!! Didn’t know about brain aging. ”

A third added,

“This is why I avoid using my phone in the morning. I noticed it by myself. what vibes i get in socmed affect my whole day”

Bonus Tips: The Importance of Quality Sleep

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Sleep is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity for optimal brain function. “Sleep plays an essential role in brain health. Some theories suggest that sleep aids in clearing abnormal proteins in the brain and consolidating memories, which enhances overall memory and brain health,” says Kelsey Kidd ¹, a nurse practitioner in Neurology.

It’s recommended to aim for seven to eight consecutive hours of sleep per night. Fragmented sleep doesn’t offer the same benefits. If you’re struggling with sleep, consider discussing potential sleep apnea or other conditions with your health care provider.

The Mediterranean Diet: A Brain-Boosting Regimen

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Diet plays a pivotal role in brain health. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil, has been linked to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease. “Omega fatty acids found in extra-virgin olive oil and other healthy fats are vital for cellular function and appear to slow cognitive decline in older adults,” Kidd adds.

Engage Your Brain: Stay Mentally Active

Neuroscientist Shares 3 Brain Health No-Go's: “This is why I avoid using my phone in the morning" » woman thinking dp48782201
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Much like muscles, the brain needs regular exercise to stay sharp. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill, can help maintain cognitive function. It’s essential to diversify the activities for maximum benefit.

While there are many paid brain-training programs available, simple activities like reading or challenging puzzles can be just as effective.

Social Connections: A Pillar of Brain Health

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Human beings are inherently social creatures. Regular social interaction can help stave off depression and stress, both of which can contribute to memory loss. “Research links solitary confinement to brain atrophy. In contrast, being socially active may strengthen brain health,” Kidd points out.

Vascular Health: The Link Between Heart & Brain

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The health of our blood vessels is not only crucial for our heart but also for our brain. Regular check-ups to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol are essential. Keeping these numbers within a normal range can significantly benefit brain health.

Additionally, lifestyle choices like physical activity, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can further promote vascular health.

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In our fast-paced world, stress and overwhelm are common experiences. A simple yet effective strategy known as a “brain dump” can help manage these feelings. By writing down everything on your mind, you can clear mental clutter, close open loops, and prioritize tasks more effectively.

Discover how this technique, coupled with insights from psychology and time-management methods, can transform your approach to stress and productivity.

Unlocking Your True Potential: Rewiring the Brain for Positive Change

Neuroscientist Shares 3 Brain Health No-Go's: “This is why I avoid using my phone in the morning" » 5 15
Image Credit: TikTok @epigenetic_tips.

They say that by the time we reach 35 years old, 95% of who we are is already ingrained within us. Our behaviors, emotional reactions, habits, attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions become a well-established program, much like a computer program.

However, what if we desire a different path? What if we want to be healthier, happier, and free?

Sources

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This article was produced and syndicated by Viral Chatter.

  1. mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/5-tips-to-keep-your-brain-healthy
@emonthebrain Do not do these things if you care abt your brain #mentalhealth #brain #wellness #health #mentalhealthawareness #lifetips ♬ original sound – emily | neuroscientist

Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.