Brain Expert Shares Daily Tips for Keeping Memory Sharp and Focused
A brain injury therapist reveals her daily supplement and tech tips to enhance memory and cognitive function for better mental health
Natalie Mackenzie, Brain Injury Therapist, Lion’s Mane, Cognitive Function, Memory, Diet, Exercise, Vitamin D, Mediterranean Diet, Wild Salmon, Outdoor Activities, Learning, Supplements, Technology, Healthy Living, Mental Health, Nutrition, Brain Health
London: There’s so much health advice out there that it can feel like a lot to handle. But Natalie Mackenzie, a brain injury therapist, has some simple tips to help keep your memory sharp. She practices what she preaches, using her own daily routine to boost her cognitive function.
Even experts have their challenges. Natalie admits that one of her top strategies is to lighten her mental load by using technology. She says, “We can’t do it all, so I use tech to help my brain.”
She automates tasks whenever she can, using tools like transcribing software and planning apps. This helps her focus on what really matters without getting sidetracked.
But there are also some straightforward habits that require a bit more effort. For starters, staying hydrated is crucial for memory and cognitive function. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference.
What you eat also plays a huge role in how your brain works. Natalie emphasizes the importance of a healthy diet, saying, “I eat the rainbow and avoid processed foods.” She swears by the Mediterranean diet, which is packed with good food that benefits the brain.
Her go-to foods include colorful fruits and veggies like broccoli, spinach, strawberries, and avocados, along with nuts, seeds, and fresh wild salmon. She also opts for healthy oils like olive oil for cooking.
While supplements aren’t a substitute for a balanced diet, Natalie takes a lion’s mane supplement, known as the “smart mushroom,” to give her brain an extra boost. She explains, “I take it in the morning for neural protection and to support memory and focus.”
On top of that, she sticks to three daily habits: learning new things, getting outside, and staying active. Exercise is great for physical health, but it’s also a brain booster.
She points out that you don’t need to hit the gym for hours. Just moving around helps with memory and decision-making. A quick run can clear your mind and help you process information better.
Natalie also encourages spending time outdoors for its many health benefits. If you’re short on time, a Vitamin D supplement or a Lumie light can help. She says, “Vitamin D is key for good sleep, which supports cognitive function!”
One of her biggest challenges is finding something new to learn every day. Whether it’s a fun fact or an online course, she believes that learning keeps your brain sharp. She adds, “Learning a language is a fantastic workout for your brain!”