A Consultant Neurologist, Dr Agabi Osigwe has identified anxiety and stress reduction as some of the best strategies for enhancing memory and overcoming common memory lapses.
Osigwe, who works at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.
He also told NAN that an individual’s memories change as they age, adding, however, that most temporary mental lapses experienced were normal and not signs of dementia.
“Anxiety, grief and preoccupation could make you forget where you put your keys, glasses, or other items you seem to always be searching for.
“We all experience it at times, there’s no reason to be afraid; find a solution to what’s troubling you and the memory lapses will reduce,” he said.
According to him, brain health is critical to overall health as it underlies the ability to communicate, make decisions, problem-solve and live a productive and useful life.
“Maintaining a healthy brain during one’s life is the uppermost goal in pursuing health and longevity,” he said.
Osigwe noted that certain foods are good for the brain’s health and could improve its ability to do specific mental tasks, such as memory and concentration.
He said that the foods that boost brain health included fatty fish, coffee, turmeric, nuts, broccoli, blueberries, eggs, oranges, green tea, and cocoa drink among others.
According to him, some of the foods are high in antioxidants that may help improve brain performance. Osigwe added that research had shown that diet, exercise, good sleep, meditation and a healthy lifestyle have a major impact on memory and brain health.
