People are living much longer lives than ever before but not all enjoy their golden years.

Forgetfulness or dementia, long accepted as a part of growing older, is actually not a natural consequence of old age. Some people actually stay as sharp mentally as they ever were but it doesn't come by accident. Mental acuity can be safeguarded throughout our lives in many ways.

Get physical. Maintaining a reasonable level of physical activity does more than keeping our bodies in shape. Activity helps us to release endorphins (the feel good hormones) which make people of all ages function more efficiently. Recent studies have found that exercise also keeps our mental functioning in shape.

Read. People who enjoy reading are using their minds and their imaginations. They are learning with each page they turn. Talking books are available if you can't see as well as you used to. The benefits will be the same. Watch TV to stay sharp rather than zone out. Playing along with trivia game shows is fun and it helps you to keep thinking. Watch educational programming like shows on home decorating, or programs about history or cooking which require thinking. Do jigsaw puzzles, anagrams and crossword puzzles. These keep your vision, hands and minds busy at the same time.

Eat the right brain fuel. Cancer fighting antioxidants are found in deeply colored fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, many beans and certain spices. Make sure that your diet is balanced overall which is important to all areas of your body. Drink lots of water, six to eight glasses each day is recommended. Maintaining a normal weight reduces your risk of heart disease, diabetes, joint problems, and stroke and it also helps you to remain fit.

Our brains are the headquarters of our lives. They direct our thought, movement, intention, emotion and senses. Every area of the brain requires us to maintain high functionality. Learn to multitask by engaging your senses and your body and your thoughts at the same time—as with a walk along the beach where you see, feel, smell, move and think at once. We are what we eat and our brains run on stimulation. Just keeping life and the daily business of living a grand adventure will keep you young in heart, mind and body.

Mental acuity can be achieved in the following ways EXCEPT______.

A．having a balanced diet

B．forming a habit of reading

C．doing as much exercise as possible

D．keeping a routine of physical training