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While crossword puzzles may help keep you sharp, there is so much more you can do. Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains that a chemical called BDNF allows new brain cells to grow at any age. Gupta offers tips:
• Movement – Moderate exercise is better for the heart while intense activity is better for body.
• Sugar – Brain receptors shut down with too much sugar.
• Stress – The key is not having relentless stress. Find time to decompress.
• Discomfort zone – We only use 5-10% of our brain 90% of the time. To harness more brain power, do things differently, like using your non dominant hand.
– Betsie Gambel, Gambel Communications, The New Orleans 100