Credits: Social Media
I’m a neurologist and I would ‘never do’ these 3 things that are terrible for your brain
We often think take steps to look after our heart health, like eating healthy and exercising, but the brain is just as important too.
A neurologist has shared three things he would ‘never do’ because they are really bad for your brain and can cause serious health problems.
3 things neurologist would ‘never do’
“Here are three things I would never do, and I’m not talking about the obvious ones like not smoking, not doing drugs and limiting alcohol intake,” Dr Bing Liu said on TikTok.
1. Get neck manipulation
Firstly, the neurologist would never get neck manipulation, a procedure that involves manually adjusting the upper part of the spine to treat neck pain, headaches, and stiffness. He explained that forceful neck adjustments carry a “rare but serious risk” of vertebral artery dissection, which is a tear in the artery that supplies blood to your brain stem. This can cause a stroke and lead to Locked-in syndrome, where you are fully aware but can’t move or speak. For neck pain, he recommends stretching, gentle exercises and physical therapy instead.
2. Ignore a different headache
Liu also advised everyone to never ignore a headache that feels different to usual. Most people get headaches now and again, and those who suffer from migraines know the usual symptoms, but if a headache suddenly feels different to what you’re used to, that’s a big cause for concern. Thunderclap headaches, an extremely painful headache that comes on suddenly, or ones that last longer than usual, could be a sign of something far more serious, such as a bleed, tumor or aneurysm, so it’s best to consult a doctor.
3. Sacrifice quality sleep
We are all told to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, and quality sleep is so important for your brain. Chronic sleep deprivation can increase your risk of dementia and lead to many neurological issues, so sleep should always be a top priority. According to the CDC, a huge 1 in 3 Americans say they don’t get enough. A regular sleep routine and meditation before bed can help you sleep better. It’s also important to create the right environment, with an optimal bedroom temperature and blinds or curtains that block out light. Eating a good diet and exercising during the day will support good sleep too.
12 ways to look after your brain
To look after your brain, keep it healthy and stay young, Harvard Health recommends doing the following 12 things:
- Get mental stimulation
- Do enough exercise
- Eat a good diet
- Improve your blood pressure
- Watch your blood sugar levels
- Lower your cholesterol
- Quit smoking
- Cut down on alcohol
- Protect your head
- Good social connections
- Care for your emotions
- Consider low-dose aspirin
Dr Bing Liu (MD, MPH) is a board-certified neurologist in Concord, North Carolina, who received his medical degree at Shanghai Jiao Tong University before completing a residency at the University of Mississippi.
