The Complete Brain Exercise Book

Naturopathic doctor Smith (Principles and Practices of Naturopathic Medicine) opens this useful book with a concise overview of how each part of the brain functions, possible causes of impaired brain function, and ways to "rebuild" the brain. The book features more than 150 brain exercises and puzzles, promising that "this rigorous but easy-to-follow program will help your brain stay sharp." The exercises concentrate on building and maintaining visual/spatial, language, sensory processing, and motor learning skills. Smith also suggests sports and recreational exercises. About half of the book includes background information about "brain-friendly" foods, a health and diet plan, and 125 recipes. Useful health tips discuss the positive effects of specific foods, such as ginger, which Smith says contains compounds that are anti-inflammatory and improve digestion and stomach health. He also includes a list of resources%E2%80%94websites, apps, and video games%E2%80%94and references. This easy-to-understand book should be of interest both to people who are experiencing memory loss and to those who wish to prevent it. (Oct.)