Your brain is the most complex structure in the known universe. Still largely a mystery to medical researchers, the brain is made of billions of neurons, cells that can carry an electrical impulse to communicate within a network. These neural networks are enhanced and protected by billions of glial cells. The three pounds of brain matter in an average adult brain is 60 percent fat and contains distinct regions of specialization. Your brain is not only responsible for processing thoughts, memories, and emotions, it is also involved in regulating vital processes throughout your body such as metabolism, growth, reproduction, body temperature, heart-rate, and breathing. Being such a sophisticated organ, it may seem the brain can function well without our help, but the brain is susceptible to a number of insults that can cause great damage. It’s important to care for your brain by getting regular exercise, making sure your cardiovascular system is healthy, and eating nutritious foods. In addition, you can help protect your brain by limiting the amount of alcohol you consume, maintaining healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and avoiding exposure to unhealthy metals, such as aluminum and lead.
