Brain Drain: Everyday Habits Secretly Accelerating Cognitive Aging

11. Running Low on Water and Eating Irregularly

Even mild dehydration can impair concentration and short-term memory. Similarly, erratic meal timing or skipping meals can cause energy dips and blood-sugar swings that make thinking foggy. Supporting cognition starts with simple, routine habits: keep a water bottle handy and sip regularly, include protein and fiber at meals to sustain energy, and plan small, nourishing snacks for long days. For many people, a portable snack such as nuts, fruit, or yogurt steadies glucose and mood. If mornings are rushed, prep grab-and-go options the night before to avoid skipping breakfast. These small, reliable practices give your brain steady fuel and reduce physiological stressors that otherwise chip away at attention and recall.

12. Neglecting Oral Health and Gum Disease

Oral health affects the whole body, and persistent gum disease increases systemic inflammation. Some research links periodontal disease with higher risk of cognitive decline, possibly because infections and inflammation travel beyond the mouth and affect vascular and immune responses. Brushing twice daily, flossing or using interdental cleaners, and attending regular dental checkups are direct ways to reduce this inflammation. If you notice bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, see a dental professional — many gum conditions are treatable. Good oral hygiene is a small, achievable habit that lowers infection risk and reduces a hidden source of inflammatory stress on the brain.