Nature’s Brilliant Secret for Better Brain Health
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted May 24, 2024
We all want to stay sharp and focused as we age.
But for many, the desire to maintain a “teenage brain” for the rest of their lives simply doesn’t match reality. Instead, the edges of their memory start to soften and their thinking slows.
If the possibility of losing your mental agility keeps you up at night, you’re not alone. It’s a top concern among many adults.
But I’ve got some news that could finally ease your mind.
There’s an incredibly simple solution that can help keep your brain in tip-top shape, and it’s only steps away…
The brain is a complex organ. So, there isn’t one single way to maintain its health.
But if you want to keep your brain as sharp as a tack, one of the BEST places to start is right outside your front door.
That’s right. Scientists say just stepping outside for some good old-fashioned sunlight can do wonders for brain health.
In fact, new research is showing that higher levels of light exposure can boost alertness and cognitive performance.
The study, published in the journal eLife, found that folks who spent more time out in the sunshine maintained better cognitive function throughout their lifetimes.
Researchers point to a particular type of light-sensitive cells in your eyes called ipRCGs. These cells connect directly to specific areas of the brain, including the hypothalamus, which plays a crucial role in regulating your sleep, alertness, and cognitive functions.
When you expose yourself to higher light levels, these cells are stimulated, boosting brain activity.
The trouble is that most of us spend our days cooped up inside, depriving ourselves of the natural light our brains crave. We hide inside, staring at screens all day, and end up feeling groggy, unfocused, and mentally exhausted.
We’ve been taught to fear the sun, but the reality is sun exposure is VITAL for good health. The key is reasonable moderation and protection.
Don’t go overboard and fry yourself, but don’t be afraid to step outside and soak up some daily rays. Your body and brain will reap the benefits.
And another thing…
Here’s what else we’ve covered this week in Living Well Daily…
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P.S. Wondering what the RIGHT amount of sunshine is? I’ve got you covered. CLICK HERE for the inside scoop on safe sun exposure.
Source:
Campbell Islay, et al., (2024) Regional response to light illuminance across the human hypothalamus, elife, 13:RP96576, [doi.org / 10. 7554 /eLife. 96576.1]
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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