LIFESTYLE AND BRAIN HEALTH: EVIDENCE-BASED STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION AND WELL-BEING: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Efterpi Elpida Kyriazi, Georgia Konstantopoulou

Abstract


Introduction: Brain health is a multidimensional construct encompassing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning across the lifespan. Increasing evidence highlights the role of modifiable lifestyle factors in maintaining brain health and reducing the risk of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Objective: This narrative review aims to synthesize recent evidence on lifestyle-related determinants of brain health, focusing on evidence-based strategies for prevention and well-being. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted using the PubMed database. Peer-reviewed articles published between January 2015, and March 2026 were identified using combinations of keywords related to brain health, lifestyle, prevention, and well-being. Studies were selected based on relevance to modifiable lifestyle factors, including physical activity, nutrition, sleep, cognitive engagement, and social interaction. Both observational and interventional studies were considered to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview. Results: Recent evidence consistently demonstrates that lifestyle behaviours play a critical role in brain health. Regular physical activity is associated with improved cognitive performance and reduced risk of neurodegenerative disorders. Adherence to healthy dietary patterns, such as Mediterranean-type diets, is linked to better cognitive outcomes and lower incidence of cognitive decline. Adequate sleep supports memory consolidation and emotional regulation, while cognitive stimulation and social engagement contribute to neuroplasticity and psychological resilience. Multidomain interventions targeting multiple lifestyle factors simultaneously appear to yield greater benefits than single-domain approaches. Conclusions: Lifestyle-based strategies represent a feasible and effective approach to promoting brain health and preventing cognitive and mental health disorders. Incorporating these strategies into public health policies and educational programs is essential. Future research should prioritize longitudinal designs and culturally adapted interventions to further clarify causal mechanisms and optimize prevention efforts.


Keywords


brain health; lifestyle; prevention; well-being; physical activity; Mediterranean diet; sleep; cognitive engagement; social interaction; narrative review

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v13i7.6743

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