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Mar 28, 2007

"The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as we continue to live." --Mortimer Adler

Habits For A Fit Brain

The best brain workout has two daily components: learning and aerobics. Scientists have long known about the first part. "The brain is like a computer, a learning machine that comes with hardware," says Dr. Gary Kennedy, director of the division of geriatric psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. "Education and cognitive stimulation upgrades the software." Education seems to be the most consistent protective factor against Alzheimer's disease, he adds. It’s only lately that studies have proven how aerobic exercise -- even a brisk daily walk -- impacts brain fitness by promoting the growth of new brain cells to replace the ones that die off naturally as we age. "Through aerobics, we can actually increase brain volume in the area that we use for working memory," says Kennedy. This article includes recommended 'habits for a fit brain'.