Daily sleeping habit could 'reset' the brain and reduce risk of dementia, according to experts

New research suggests that one simple daily habit could greatly reduce your risk of dementia.

According to artificial intelligence expert and University of Waterloo professor Mohamed Elmasry, taking a short nap every day can help brain health, lowering the risk of developing the disorder.

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Studies have shown that taking regular, short naps in the daytime allows our brain to rest, subsequently improving our brain function when we are awake. It is particularly beneficial in improving our performance in memory tests, which leads Elmasry to believe that naps act as a “reset” to refresh our memories.

He said: "Napping is to give our brain a good sleep at midday to recharge, to rewrite our memory, and to dream. The alternative? A brain that works non-stop, say from 6 am to 11 pm.”

"You can't force your brain and body to take a nap longer than what they need. If you're working, use part of your noon break for a nap, put your head on your hands, on your desk.. If you're retired, any time is napping time, and do it in bed."

Furthermore, Elmasry suggested in his new book, iMind: Artificial and Real Intelligence, that our increasing reliance on AI may be accelerating the rate of cognitive decline, and raising our risk of developing dementia. Just like our muscles, our brains need regular exercise. When we become too reliant on the convenience of AI, we are leaving our brains dormant.

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"Your brain-mind is the highest-value asset you have, or will ever have. Increase its potential and longevity by caring for it early in life, keeping it and your body healthy so it can continue to develop," he writes.

Over 5 million Americans over the age of 65 are living with dementia , according to the CDC. Despite this, research into effective treatments and cures is ongoing.

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