10 things to know about BRAIN HEALTH

It's the most important organ you have-the source of creativity, the holder of memories, and the control center for every other part of your body. Here's how to keep your brain healthy for life.

1 Your brain can keep getting stronger

The average human brain weighs around three pounds and is as big as a cantaloupe. Though some shrinkage is normal as we age, thanks to a concept called neuroplasticity we can keep growing crucial neural connections through healthy habits and lifelong learning.

2 EXERCISE BUILDS UP BRAINS AS WELL AS MUSCLES

"If you want the best bang for your buck for brain health, start exercising," says Jessica Caldwell, Ph.D., director of the Women's Alzheimer's Movement Prevention and Research Center at the Cleveland Clinic, who recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

When you move your muscles, you get these benefits:

→ The release of neurochemicals that support brain plasticity, flexibility, and memory

→ Decreased brain shrinkage as you age

→ Increased blood flow to a part of the brain that controls memory

→ Reduction of inflammation (tied to dementia)

3 A friendly way to stay sharp

Getting off social media and meeting up IRL is smart for your brain: "Social interaction is quite demanding-you have different types of stimulation including planning the outing as well as interacting with others, which fulfills the reward pathways of the brain." says Agenor Limon, Ph.D., an associate professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Try taking a class with a friend so you can chat about it.

4 NOT SLEEPING WELL? GET CHECKED