What you need to know about brain health.

Date: 10/01/2025

Your brain is the powerhouse behind everything you do. From thinking and learning to feeling and moving, it’s the command centre of your life. But how often do you really think about its health? If you’re like most people, probably not as much as you do about your diet, exercise, or even your skincare routine.

With 1 in 3 people diagnosed with a neurological disorder in their lifetime, it’s important to
understand what ‘brain health’ really means, recognise the warning signs, and adopt healthy
habits to keep your brain functioning at its best. So, let’s dive in.

What is brain health?

‘Brain health’ – it’s a term we don’t often hear, but it refers to how well your brain functions across different areas of your life. This includes cognitive abilities like thinking, learning, and memory. It also includes emotional factors, like managing stress and maintaining a positive mood.

Physical health, lifestyle choices, and social interactions all play a big part in keeping your brain healthy. In short, brain health is the overall condition of your brain and how effectively it helps you live your daily life.

What does a healthy brain look like?

A healthy brain, or an ‘optimally functioning brain’, is measured by clear thinking and strong executive functions. This means being able to reason logically and make good decisions. A healthy brain helps you think clearly, solve problems easily, and make smart choices.

Early warning signs to look out for

For many neurological conditions, subtle changes in brain function can start showing up years or even decades before a diagnosis is made. While the occasional memory slip or mood swing is normal, ongoing symptoms might be a sign of something more serious. The brain is complex, and subtle shifts can sometimes hint at bigger issues.

For example, forgetting where you left your keys isn’t a cause for concern, but not knowing what your keys are for should raise alarm bells. Similarly, slower reaction times—like taking longer to react to situations, such as stopping for a car ahead—can also be a red flag.

Keep an eye out for trouble concentrating, more frequent forgetfulness, mood swings, slower reaction times, trouble finding words, sleep problems, or changes in vision or balance.

If you notice these signs persisting, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional, as they could be early evidence of neurological changes.

Tips for staying on top of your brain health

1. Challenge your brain

Keep your mind sharp by doing things that keep it active, like puzzles, reading, or learning something new. Just like your muscles, you lose it if you don’t use it.

2. Prioritise sleep

Your brain needs a solid night’s sleep to process and store information. Aim for 7-9 hours each night.

3. Maintain a healthy diet

You are what you eat, so give your brain the right fuel with a balanced diet full of antioxidants, omega-3s, and vitamins.

4. Manage stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on your brain. Try stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga to keep it in check.

5. Get social

Stay socially active to support cognitive function and emotional well-being.

6. Exercise regularly

Exercise boosts blood flow to your brain, so aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity every day.

7. Be aware

Take note of early warning signs like sleep problems, slower reaction times, or changes in vision or balance. If you notice any of these, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

8. Track your brain health

Use the BrainEye app to monitor your brain health, which assesses your eye movement accuracy and response time. Since your eyes are controlled by your brain, tracking eye function may provide valuable insights into your overall brain health.

Here’s how frequently you should test yourself, based on your situation:

• Family history of neurological diseases: Monthly
• Collision sports players: Weekly + immediately after a concussive event
• Under 50 and healthy: Every 6 months
• Over 50 and healthy: Every 3 months

Your brain is an incredible organ that keeps everything running smoothly.

By adopting healthy habits and staying proactive with regular brain health checks, you can support your overall well-being.

Download the BrainEye app via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, and start taking charge of your brain health today.