How healthy is YOUR brain?

Now, a new test can reveal how healthy your brain is. 

In 19 questions, the quiz takes into account lifestyle habits that affect memory, thinking and brain ageing.

Many of us may not realise that a good diet and plenty of exercise not only keeps our bodies trim, but also helps us think more clearly.

Eating a diet rich in vegetables and foods containing omega-3 - like oily fish - as well as being sociable and talking to our neighbours - are both ways of protecting the brain.

Similarly, doing crosswords, puzzles and games like Sudoku can keep the mind sharp.

And rather than immediately Googling an answer to a question, actually spending more time thinking could even help. 

Add or subtract the points associated with your answer, before calculating your overall score:

1. How old are you?

• 15-20 years old* (1)

• 21-30 (2)

• 31-40 (3)

• 41-50 (4)

• Over 51 (5)

* Just like a car, young people don’t need a standard MOT. Talk to a healthcare professional about how children and youngsters can best look after their cognitive health.

2. How many units of alcohol do you drink on an average week?

• None (0)

• 1-6 (1)

• 7-14 (2)

• 15-21 (3)

• 22-28 (4)

• More than 29 (5)

3. What is your Body Mass Index (BMI)? 

To calculate your BMI, divide your weight (kilos) by your height (metres) and then divide your answer by your height again.

· Below 18.5 (1)

· 18.5-24.9 (0)

· 25-29.9 (1)

· 30-34.9 (2)

· 35-39.9 (3)

· Over 40 (5)

4. How often do you try to do the following? If you answer yes to any option take one point off your total points to date 

• Eat five or more portions of fruit and vegetables every day (-1)

• Eat a varied diet to make sure you get enough vitamins and minerals (-1)

• Keep your sugar intake within recommended levels (-1)

• Keep your fat intake within recommended levels (-1)

• Take a dietary supplement or vitamin (-1)

5. Approximately how much physical activity do you do on an average week (remember to include walking to and from work, walking the dog, as well as time at the gym, swimming pool, etc)

• None (5)

• ½ to 1 hour (4)

• 1 ½ to 3 hours (3)

• 3 ½ to 5 hours (2)

• 5 ½ to 8 hours (1)

• Over 8 hours (0)

(dailymail.co.uk)