A lot of things are touted these days as brain enhancers. We look at the evidence:

BRAIN TEASERS

Examples: Crossword puzzles, sudoku, Scrabble

Research: While there s little proof that puzzles boost brainpower in younger folk, one study found that for people ages 75 and up, those who engaged in such activities 11 times a week (the most in the study) delayed the onset of rapid memory loss by 1.3 years over those who did them just four times a week (the minimum).

EXERCISE

Examples: Cardio activities, weight training

Research: Until recently, scientists believed you had to get your heart pumping to reap brain benefits, but a new study says pumping iron works too. A University of British Columbia researcher found that women who lifted weights once a week for a year improved decision-making skills by nearly 13 percent.

BRAIN VIDEO GAMES

Examples: Nintendo Brain Age, Sega Brain Assist

Research: Do these games work? Depends on whom you ask. One U.K. study found that Nintendo s version boosted students math scores by as much as 50 percent versus a control group, while a recent experiment concluded that the game is no more effective than a crossword puzzle.

NEURONUTRITION

Examples: Flaxseeds, walnuts, salmon

Research: Omega-3 fatty acids are brain food; one study of teenage boys found that those who ate fish more than once a week scored higher on intelligence tests three years later. But effects may be muted in adults; experts say braincentric nutrition has the greatest effect on kids and teens.