These common everyday habits could be unknowingly damaging your brain function

2. Sitting for long periods – Prolonged sitting reduces blood flow to the brain and is linked to hippocampal shrinkage.

3. Multitasking too often – Constant task-switching reduces efficiency, attention span, and working memory.

4. Eating a poor diet – Diets high in processed foods and sugars increase inflammation and oxidative stress, harming brain cells.

5. Chronic stress – Excess cortisol damages the hippocampus, weakens memory formation, and disrupts sleep.

6. Social isolation – Lack of social interaction raises risk of depression and cognitive decline.

7. Listening to loud music through headphones – Causes hearing loss, which increases brain strain and dementia risk.

8. Neglecting mental stimulation – Fewer cognitive challenges weaken neural pathways and reduce cognitive reserve.

9. Not drinking enough water – Mild dehydration reduces focus, memory, and blood flow to the brain.

10. Overexposure to screens before bed – Blue light suppresses melatonin, disrupting sleep quality and memory consolidation.

Excess cortisol damages the hippocampus, weakens memory formation, and disrupts sleep. (Source: Freepik)

So, what can you do to improve brain health?

Dr Shivakumar H R, consultant neurologist, SS SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, Bangalore, agreed with Dr Manickam, further listing certain daily habits people can follow to improve brain health:

Stay Organised: Keeping a daily planner helps prevent forgetting important tasks and reinforces memory by requiring individuals to write down information. Writing stimulates the brain to remember things in greater detail.

Get Adequate Sleep: Aiming for 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night supports the consolidation of memories. Sleep strengthens memory retention by allowing the brain to process and store information.

Practice Mental Exercises: Engaging in brain-stimulating activities, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, can improve memory by promoting brain activity and strengthening neural connections. Habits like journaling, yoga, and meditation can help build emotional resilience and clarity.

Regular Physical Activity: Exercise improves blood flow to the brain and supports neurogenesis, enhancing memory retention and cognitive function.

Reduce Stress: Managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness can improve memory by reducing the negative impact of stress hormones on the brain.

Focus on diet: The brain thrives on nutrients like omega 3 fatty acids, magnesium, coenzyme Q and vitamin D, which are often lacking in modern diets. These nutrients don’t just support memory but also play a vital role in regulating mood and managing stress. Without them, people are more prone to anxiety, brain fog, and forgetfulness.

Mindful detox: Our brains are constantly overstimulated by work screens and the demands of daily life. Without moments of quiet, the brain doesn’t get a chance to reset. That’s why practices like mindful unplugging from digital devices and spending time in silence are becoming essential, not optional.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.