HELP OUT FOR A GENEROUS HEALTH KICK SMARTEN UP YOUR SCHEDULE

Volunteering your time is the smartest way to look out for number one. Here’s how to make altruism pay back No time to spare? Add these steps to your routine and keep your head in the game

Britain is the most charitable nation in the world, with 75% of people donating their money and/or time every month. We here at MH applaud you. Especially as new research in Plos One

| journal suggests that giving back might be the best way to receive a big bump to your own good health.

Regular volunteering – be that coaching football for kids or organising a local parkrun – reverses cognitive decline to the tune of five years. This is in part due to the grey matterstimulating benefits of increased social interaction, but the simple sense of purpose you’ll derive also pumps the brakes on your brain’s biological ageing process.

But you needn’t wait to benefit, either; a little honest selflessness can also help you in the here and now. That’s because altruism triggers the release of hormones related to caregiving, such as serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins. These are proven to regulate stress, improve mood and even reduce the dreaded inflammation associated with everything from cancers to heart disease.

As with all healthy endeavours, consistency is key. It is the regularity of volunteering that guarantees a more youthful brain. Fighting the urge to flee from high-street charity chuggers is one place to start, but do-it.org is an excellent resource detailing a range of local projects. If that’s given you cause for thought, you’ll find seven more ways to safeguard your brain on p82. Consider it our personal contribution. Don’t forget your morning coffee. Caffeine boosts levels of an enzyme that protects the brain against dementia, scientists at Indiana University found.