Neuroscientist explains how to remove 'brain waste' and prevent dementia as you age

You know when you're working on an arts and crafts project, and by the time you're done, there's a bunch of leftover construction paper and paint marks? 'Just as your home accumulates waste that needs to be cleared away, your brain generates byproducts - such as extra proteins, cellular debris, and toxins - when its cells do their jobs,' neuroscientist Ian McDonough told the DailyMail.com He explained that there are special systems in your brain, including microglia, and networks like the glymphatic and lymphatic systems, that work to help remove this waste. 'During sleep, the glymphatic system becomes especially active, flushing out the unwanted materials to keep your brain clean and healthy, much like a nightly cleanup that prevents buildup and potential damage,' McDonough said. 'Several lifestyle factors may help the brain naturally clear our waste like increasing the quality of one's sleep,' McDonough said. By clearing up this 'brain waste,' researchers have the potential to prevent the effects of dementia 'During sleep, the glymphatic system becomes especially active, flushing out the unwanted materials to keep your brain clean and healthy, much like a nightly cleanup that prevents buildup and potential damage.'