Protecting our brain and health – A public lecture on World Brain Month 2026

Practical Recommendations: Protecting Your Brain Health As we commemorate World Brain Day 2026 under the theme "Brain Health: Access for All" , I offer these practical recommendations: For Better Sleep Hygiene: · Stick to a consistent sleep schedule—go to bed and wake up at the same time every day· Create a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment· Limit screen time for at least one hour before bed· Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine in the hours before bedtime For Mental Health: · Seek professional help if you experience persistent sadness, anxiety, or mood changes· Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation· Stay socially connected—social interaction acts as a shield against cognitive decline· Talk to loved ones about your struggles; you are not alone For Healthy Nutrition: · Choose complex carbohydrates (brown rice, quinoa, whole grains) over refined carbohydrates· Eat moderate portions—avoid overeating· Opt for meals rich in fibre, lean proteins, and vegetables· Be especially cautious before driving or operating machinery: avoid heavy, carb-rich meals Conclusion: A Call to Action Fellow citizens, World Brain Month 2026 reminds us that brain health is for everyone, regardless of geography, income, or background.

I will address three interconnected threats to brain health that are entirely preventable: poor sleep hygiene, depression, and excessive consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods—and how these factors combine to increase our risk of accidents.

The Deadly Intersection: How These Three Factors Combine What makes this situation particularly alarming is how these three factors intersect: Poor sleep hygiene → increased cravings for sugary and high-carbohydrate foods Excessive carbohydrate consumption → drowsiness and impaired cognition Depression → worsened by both poor sleep and poor diet All three → significantly increased risk of accidents When you are sleep-deprived, your body craves quick energy in the form of sugar and carbohydrates.