Answer:
1. Exercise regularly
Staying physically active is one of the best ways to improve brain functioning.
According to a 2018 studyTrusted Source, light exercise promotes activity in the hippocampus, which is involved in memory. It also enhances the connection between the hippocampus and other brain regions that regulate memory.
A 2014 studyTrusted Source also found that exercise increases the volume of the hippocampus. The authors of the study speculated that aerobic activity promotes the growth of neurons, which boosts brain structure and function.
To enjoy the cognitive benefits of exercise, it’s important to do it regularly. The good news is that you don’t have to exercise vigorously to reap the benefits.
Beginner-friendly exercise ideas include:
walking
yoga
hiking
bodyweight workouts
2. Get enough sleep
Sleep is also essential for supporting optimal cognitive function. When you sleep, your brain consolidates memories you created throughout the day. It also enhances your brain’s ability to learn new information when you wake up.
In fact, adequate sleep is so important that a 2019 studyTrusted Source found that even mild sleep deprivation negatively influences working memory.
3. Meditate
Another way to become smarter is to practice meditation.
In an older 2010 study, meditation was associated with better executive functioning and working memory. These effects were observed after just four days of meditation.
A 2019 studyTrusted Source found similar results. After participants completed 8 weeks of 13-minute guided meditation sessions, their attention, recognition ability, and working memory increased. The participants’ anxiety and mood also improved.
The researchers speculated that these cognitive effects were due to the emotional benefits of meditation.
There are many ways to meditate. You can:
use meditation apps
listen to guided meditation videos
attend a meditation class
4. Drink coffee
Adenosine is a brain chemical that stops the release of stimulatory substances in your brain. However, the caffeine in coffee blocks adenosine, which allows these substances to give you a boost of energy. This could help promote learning and mental performance.
A 2014 studyTrusted Source also determined that caffeine intake can enhance attention, which may help you stay focused, and better able to take in new information.
It’s best to consume coffee in moderation, though. Drinking too much caffeine can increase anxiety and make you jittery.
5. Drink green tea
Sipping on green tea can also support your brain function. Some of these effects are due to the caffeine in green tea, which is present in small amounts. Green tea is also rich in a chemical called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
According to a 2019 reviewTrusted Source, EGCG may facilitate the growth of the axons and dendrites in neurons. Axons and dendrites make it possible for neurons to communicate and complete cognitive tasks.
Additionally, a 2017 reviewTrusted Source concluded that green tea increases attention and working memory. This is likely due to the combination of beneficial components in green tea, rather than a single substance.
6. Eat nutrient-rich foods
Another way to boost your brain health is to eat foods with nutrients that support brain function. This includes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, and vitamin K.
Remember, intelligence isn't about knowing more than other people. It's about stimulating your brain, being able to solve problems, and learning .