Hygeia A world of nutrition

What is Memory
Memory is our ability to recall sensations, impressions, personal experiences, procedures, and ideas.
Memories are "stored" in the pathways of cells called neurons in the brain.

Your brain uses approximately 20% of the total oxygen circulating around our bodies.

Your brain also requires and consumes 50% of the total amount of glucose in our bodies, making the brain an energy powerhouse!!

We tend to filter memories, keeping the good ones more often and tending to forget bad ones. This could be why old people are more positive than most others.

On average our short-term working memory stores on average seven bits of information. It is no accident that our telephone numbers are seven digits long!!

Many people think that they are stuck with an inefficient memory that they have. Many people believe that memory capacity cannot be changed. This is all wrong. Memory can be developed at any stage, through the use of different techniques and a healthy lifestyle. A good memory is achieved, not a gift you are born with. Remember that one who learns quickly also retains information in memory archives much more effectively (contrary to what most people think). As a matter in fact, those minds who are slow to learn usually have problems with retention of information and are prone to making more mistakes. Take your time memorizing things, but keep the speed up and relatively quick.

Don't write down everything. Yes it nice to have your life organized. We all want to be organized, however routine allows us to work on autopilot. The use of mobile phones, organizers, PC's, PDA's, etc, have made it convenient for our minds to become lazy. Try to remember some of the more important phone numbers, names, and other information that you may have stored. This keeps the mind working even at simpler levels (which is required for more difficult levels of thinking).

The same goes with mathematics! Do the arithmetic yourself. Do not rely on calculators and other devices to "numb" your brain and analytical skills. Believe us when we tell you that this makes a world of difference.

Exercise in some form and / or keep active. This not only helps keep the weight down and energy levels up, but can also increase the rate of metabolism and allow the body to constantly utilize stored energy. Excercising also helps oxygenate your brain.

1. Balance your glucose - eating foods rich in carbohydrates, can help provide glucose (energy) for your brain and promote relaxation.

2. Don't forget your fish. Certain "fatty" fish contain omega-3 fatty acids that are essential to our brain.

3. Make sure you get ample servings of protein. Proteins are vital in making neurotransmitters which are vital for our memories and the thinking process.

4. Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals to 'fine tune' your mind.

5. Drink plenty of water every day, in order to keep your brain hydrated and refreshed.

6. Try to avoid dieting before exams or other instances that require a modest amount of mental preparation.

Try learning a musical instrument. Studies have shown that people who know how to play an instrument, are usually smarter and are quicker to catch on to linguistic learning.