Will you try these tips to keep your brain healthy?

The belief that challenging our brains through stimulating activities like learning something new or connecting with others makes a lot of sense. If we want our brain to stay in peak conditions we should use it.

Alan Gow, professor of psychology at Heriot-Watt University researches how our thinking skills change as we age and says that for activities to be effective in maintaining or improving our thinking skills they might need to challenge us in new ways - the most beneficial activities for us in later life might be doing things we've never done before.

Here are five top tips for keeping our brains active.

Engage in physical exercise

Regular aerobic exercise is beneficial for cognitive ability, while resistance training helps with memory

Practice brain exercises

Activities like learning new skills can boost memory

Stay mentally stimulated

Read books, place musical instruments or engage in discussions that challenge your thinking 

Get enough sleep

Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function and memory consolidation

Maintain a healthy diet

Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats and vitamins can support brain health.