(NaturalHealth365)  A growing number of Americans report struggling with concentration, memory, and decision-making – challenges that experts say could have lasting impacts on both personal health and everyday functioning.  These cognitive difficulties aren’t just occasional lapses; for many, they interfere with work, school, and the ability to manage daily responsibilities.

In fact, a recent study published in Neurology sheds light on this troubling trend, there’s a striking increase in self-reported cognitive problems, especially among adults under 40.  The findings suggest that what was once thought of as an issue primarily affecting older adults is now increasingly impacting younger generations, raising questions about the social, economic, and lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the decline in brain performance.

Millions of survey responses reveal a concerning pattern

Researchers analyzed more than 4.5 million responses from the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) between 2013 and 2023.  Participants were asked a simple but revealing question: “Because of a physical, mental, or emotional condition, do you have serious difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions?”

To focus on cognitive issues unrelated to depression, responses from those who reported depression were excluded, and data from 2020 were skipped due to pandemic disruptions.

The results are stark: overall, self-reported cognitive disability rose from 5.3% in 2013 to 7.4% in 2023.  Among adults under 40, the numbers nearly doubled – from 5.1% to 9.7% – while older adults over 70 saw a slight decline.

Why this matters for everyone

Cognitive difficulties are more than just personal frustrations.  They can affect career performance, educational attainment, and daily decision-making.  Adults struggling with memory and focus are less likely to get preventive health care and more likely to deal with chronic conditions.

The spike among younger adults is particularly worrying.  If this trend continues, it could have cascading effects on workforce productivity, social systems, and public health in the decades to come.

The top lifestyle factors that could be sabotaging your brain

The study’s findings are sobering, but experts say everyday lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on cognitive health.  Certain modern habits and environmental factors are quietly taking a toll on our memory, focus, and decision-making abilities:

• Poor diet: Diets high in sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods can inflame the brain, disrupt insulin balance, and contribute to memory problems.  Omega-3 deficiencies and a lack of antioxidant-rich foods may also hinder the brain’s ability to repair itself.

• Chronic stress: Long-term stress floods the brain with cortisol, which can shrink key memory and learning centers, like the hippocampus, and interfere with focus and decision-making.

• Sleep deprivation: Skipping restorative sleep not only makes us groggy, but it also prevents the brain from clearing out toxic proteins and consolidating memories, crucial processes for maintaining long-term brain health.

• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular movement reduces blood flow to the brain, limiting oxygen and nutrients that neurons need to thrive.  Exercise, on the other hand, can literally build new neural connections.

• Excess screen time: Endless scrolling, binge-watching, and constant notifications fragment attention, weaken focus, and may even alter the brain’s ability to retain information.

• Environmental toxins: Everyday exposure to pollutants, heavy metals, and even certain chemicals in household products may quietly contribute to cognitive decline over time.

• Neglecting mental fitness: Just like muscles, the brain needs exercise.  Avoiding mentally stimulating activities, such as reading, problem-solving, and learning new skills, can leave neural pathways underused and more vulnerable to decline.

Everyday habits that can protect and boost your brain

The good news is that just as certain habits can harm the brain, others can actively support it.  Research shows that small, consistent choices can make a big difference over time:

• Eat for your brain: Focus on a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, and colorful, organic whole foods.  These nutrients help combat inflammation and provide the essential building blocks your brain needs to function optimally.

• Move your body: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain, fuels new neural connections, and can sharpen memory and focus.

• Manage stress: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or even taking a few minutes for deep breathing each day can help lower cortisol levels and protect memory and decision-making skills.

• Prioritize sleep: Consistent, restorative sleep gives the brain time to clear toxins, consolidate memories, and recharge for optimal focus and problem-solving.

• Keep learning: Challenge your mind with puzzles, reading, or learning new skills.  Mental stimulation strengthens neural pathways, building resilience against cognitive decline.

Discover what leading brain health experts say about avoiding Alzheimer’s disease

For those seeking actionable strategies, Jonathan Landsman’s Alzheimer’s & Dementia Summit provides guidance from 31 top scientists, researchers, doctors, and nutritionists.  The digital download includes:

• All 31 summit presentations, plus audio and transcripts

• Bonus content on brain health, detoxification, and chronic inflammation

Owning this material ensures you can revisit proven strategies to protect your memory, focus, and overall brain health at any time, for yourself or a loved one.

Take action now – protect your brain before cognitive difficulties take hold.

Sources for this article include:

Neurology.org
Healthday.com