Natural Ways to Increase Memory & Concentration

A strong memory begins with a healthy brain. Your brain is continuing to develop and change all the time, and there are ways to strengthen it. In addition to enhancing your memory and ability to focus, these tips and exercises have the added bonus of preserving the brain, keeping you mentally sharp as you age.

Drink Up

• Drinking in moderation may improve memory skills.

  While drinking heavily can destroy brain cells related to memories, recent studies have shown that moderate drinkers do better on memory tests than nondrinkers and heavy drinkers. There may be long-term benefits to the memory as well. A study conducted in France that followed 4,000 people over age 65 found that those who consumed up to two glasses of wine daily were 45 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than nondrinkers.

Eat Right

• The antioxidants found in blueberries protect brain cells.

  Certain foods are beneficial for brain health, can improve memory and prevent Alzheimer's and dementia. Foods such as fish, walnuts, pumpkin seeds and flaxseed oil are rich in omega-3, which is good for the brain. Fruits and vegetables loaded with antioxidants, such as blueberries or spinach, also protect brain cells from damage. Foods high in saturated fat not only impair your ability to concentrate, but also increase the risk of dementia, so steer clear or limit your intake.

Sleep and Exercise

• If your brain is deprived of sleep, it won't function to its full capacity. Memory-enhancing activity occurs during the deepest stages of sleep, so it is important to get a good night's rest to ensure that your learning and memorizing abilities are not compromised. Exercising increases oxygen to the brain, which improves your ability to recall information. Exercising also reduces your risk of diabetes, which can lead to memory loss.

Exercise Your Brain

• You need to stimulate your brain to keep it growing and developing. Learning something new and challenging gives your brain a workout -- and helps develop neural pathways to improve memory and concentration. Learning a new language or working at a crossword puzzle are activities that take mental effort and encourage your brain to develop. Tackling a musical instrument is another great way to stimulate the brain and to learn to process sounds, which increases your ability to focus.