New York State Department of Health Encourages Healthy Habits to Promote Brain Health

Healthy Behaviors that Improve Physical and Mental Wellbeing Can Reduce the Risk of Brain Diseases, Including Dementia

ALBANY, N.Y. (July 22, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health encourages New Yorkers to adopt simple, healthy lifestyle habits to support brain health in recognition of World Brain Day, observed July 22.

"The summer months are a great time for going outdoors and staying active. Alongside physical exercise, habits like getting enough sleep, healthy eating and being social can help protect your brain," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said."Safeguarding your brain means protecting your future by wearing a helmet when appropriate and maintaining essential tasks such as paying attention, recalling information and multitasking."

Maintaining a healthy brain is important at every stage of life. Challenge your brain through activities such as reading, playing games and engaging in hobbies. This may enhance cognitive function and reduce your risk of getting dementia.

Some steps to incorporate into your daily habits to promote brain and overall health include:

  • Getting some kind of physical exercise every day that raises your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and body. Activities such as biking, sports, or simply walking for as little as 30 minutes a day can help tremendously in one's overall health and fitness.
  • Protecting your head from injury, not only in wearing a helmet while biking or playing contact sports but also including wearing a seat belt when in a vehicle.
  • Quitting or not starting smoking. For additional resources to help you quit, visit: https://www.nysmokefree.com/.
  • Limiting alcoholconsumption.
  • Eating healthy by maintaining a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, plant-based foods, fish and healthy fats. Avoiding processed foods is important for both your heart health and brain health.
  • Taking steps to lower high blood pressure and cholesterol. This includes proper nutrition and healthy eating, which can also help to manage diabetes.
  • Getting a full 8-hours of sleep in order to promote brain health and cognitive function.
  • Engaging the mind through mental stimulation and social interactionwith others.

You can find brain health resources on our website here.