Cognitive Ability: What It Is and Ways To Improve Yours

Years ago, people used to believe that intelligence was a fixed trait that couldn't be changed. However, we now know that the role of cognitive ability is far more complex and fluid than we once thought. So, what exactly is cognitive ability?

In short, it's our brain's ability to process information and solve problems. This includes everything from simple tasks like remembering where we put our keys to more complex abilities like understanding new concepts or patterns. Cognitive ability also impacts our:

• Language skills
• Memory ability
• Motor skills
• Reading comprehension 
• Pattern recognition
• Short-term memory
• Visual processing

Suffice to say, it’s a key part of everyday life. 

And while our cognitive abilities change as we age, we can still do many things to improve our brain power. 

Read on to learn how to improve your cognitive ability with this guide from Love Wellness. 

1. Sleep

Most people know that a good night's sleep is important for their physical health. But many don't realize that sleep is just as essential for cognitive function. Research has shown that sleep is vital to cognitive skills like working memory, learning, processing speed, and creative thinking. 

For example:

• Sleep helps the brain consolidate memories and process new information. 

• Sleep is also known to boost creativity by allowing the brain to make new connections between ideas. 

• Getting enough sleep may even help to improve one’s decision-making skills.

So, if you’re on a mission to boost your mental ability, take a step back to ensure that your sleep is in check. And if it’s not, consider getting some help — such as from a dreamy supplement like Sleeping Beauty. 

The powerful combination of melatonin, magnesium, and valerian root help you fall asleep faster as well as stay asleep for longer periods of time, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever curveball the day throws at you.* Plus, the capsules are easy to take and completely free of artificial ingredients. 

2. Exercise

Most people know that exercise is good for their physical health, but few realize the benefits it can have on their general cognitive abilities. Exercise has been shown to improve memory and concentration and increase brain cells in the hippocampus— the area of the brain responsible for some aspects of executive function, such as learning new things. 

In addition, exercise plays an important role in helping to reduce stress and improve sleep, both of which are essential for optimal cognitive function and long-term memory. So next time you’re feeling forgetful or unable to focus, take a brisk walk or go for a swim. You just might find that your mind is sharp as a tack after!

3. Meditate

It's no secret that meditation can help improve your mental well-being. But are you aware that it can also fulfill some pretty amazing cognitive benefits? Regular meditation has been shown to:

• Improve focus
• Enhance concentration
• Boost memory
• Increase intelligence

In other words, if you want to boost your cognitive abilities, consider giving meditation a try!

There are many different and versatile ways to meditate, so find a method that works according to you. Focus on your breath or repeat a mantra. The important thing is to clear your mind and focus on the present moment. Start with just a few minutes each day, and work up to longer sessions as you get more comfortable.

4. Eat Smarter

You are what you eat, goes the old saying. And that may be especially true when it comes to your cognitive abilities. What you eat can affect your mood, energy levels, and ability to concentrate and remember things. So if you're looking to boost your brainpower, it's important to make smart dietary decisions.

That said, a few key nutrients are particularly important for cognitive health. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, are essential for brain cell development and function. Foods rich in omega-3s include salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed. You could also take an omega-3 supplement like the one we offer here at Love Wellness. It contains both EPA and DHA — the two critical fatty acids your body needs to function well, but can’t make itself. 

Antioxidants are another important group of nutrients for the brain. They help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Foods high in antioxidants include berries, dark leafy greens, and dark chocolate.

In addition to eating good-for-your-brain-foods, it's also important to avoid the stuff that can harm your cognitive abilities, such as:

• Trans fats
• Refined sugar
• Highly processed foods
• GMOs

5. Play Music

Anyone who has ever taken a music lesson knows that it can be challenging but rewarding. In addition to learning how to play an instrument or sing, music lessons also provide a host of cognitive benefits. 

Studies have shown that taking music lessons can improve memory capacity, attention span, and problem-solving skills. For children, music lessons have been shown to improve academic performance. And for adults, music lessons can help to ward off cognitive decline related to old age. 

Whether you're a child or an adult, taking music lessons is a great way to boost your brain power. So dust off your old piano or guitar and sign up for a few classes. Your mind will thank you for it.

6. Use Probiotics

You may have heard of probiotics in relation to gut health, but did you know that these friendly bacteria can also have a positive impact on brain function? That's right — probiotics are not just for your gut! 

These friendly little microbes work by supporting the growth of healthy and useful bacteria in the gut, which in turn helps to produce important nutrients like vitamins B and K. But the benefits of probiotics don't stop there — studies have shown that probiotics can also help to support cognitive function and memory. 

So if you are on the lookout for something to boost your brainpower, consider adding a probiotic supplement to your daily routine like Big Brain Probiotics! This powerful blend of probiotics and nootropics helps support brain function and cognitive health.* 

And the best part? All you need is one capsule a day.*

The Final Word

Though the science of cognitive ability is still relatively new, there are already a number of ways that you can improve and optimize your brain health. So if you're looking to give yourself a mental edge, consider incorporating some of these activities into your daily routine — such as a little meditation or a brain-boosting supplement like Big Brain Probiotics.

Whether you’re on a mission to enhance your cognitive function or could simply use some help in the concentration department, you can always count on us to have just what you need to feel your best! Check us out today and improve your focus tomorrow. Trust us; you’ll be glad you did!

Sources:

Sleep On It | NIH News in Health

Probiotic Supplementation Improves Cognitive Function and Mood with Changes in Gut Microbiota in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Trial | PubMed

Boost Memory and Learning With Music | PBS KIDS for Parents