Exercising the brain is as important as exercising other parts of the body. Here are a week's worth of tips to help keep the mind in shape.

Monday. Get enough vitamin E to help support healthy brain function. This antioxidant vitamin helps maintain a healthy nervous system by protecting nerves and brain tissue from damage.

Tuesday. Include physical activity in the day. A growing number of research studies show a link between exercise and a healthy mind and body. Enter the activity into an appointment book or PDA, just like writing down a meeting or work-related obligation.

Wednesday. Find thinking games that are enjoyable, such as crossword puzzles, word jumbles, online word games or sudoku. Like exercising the body, exercising the mind feels good. Also, Chinese researchers found that people who played board games were less likely to experience mental decline.

Thursday. Volunteer in the community or for a cause that matters. According to the U.S. Administration on Aging, volunteering helps keep the brain active and helps preserve memory. Visit the administration's website at www.aoa.gov for suggestions on volunteerism.

Friday. Take a good look at health habits and identify areas to improve. The State of Aging and Health in America 2007 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention points out that high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking and physical inactivity are all linked to a decline in mental function.

Saturday. Stock up on vegetables for the week ahead. Eating vegetables may help maintain healthy brain function, according to researchers in Chicago. So pick the freshestlooking vegetables or choose frozen and enjoy them at lunch and dinner every day.

Sunday. Spend time with friends and family. Studies suggest that being with friends may help keep the brain healthy.

This story was written by Mindy Hermann, registered dietician, and provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.