How to Boost Your Intelligence: 5 Top Ways to Get Smarter

What defines intelligence? Some people measure it by metrics like test scores and GPAs, while others associate it with practical wisdom, problem-solving skills, and street smarts.

Standardized test results have shown to be inconsistent and biased, particularly along racial and socioeconomic lines, and last-minute studying can lead to GPAs that don't truly reflect intelligence. So, is it possible to teach someone how to be smart, or are intelligent people just born that way?

While there's no universal agreement on how to define intelligence, one thing is certain: the human brain holds the key. It possesses an extraordinary ability to adapt, rewire, and grow. Neural pathways evolve and strengthen through learning experiences, and external stimuli enhance the brain's vitality.

This strengthening of the brain's power influences intelligence in all aspects, from street smarts to academic test results. Here are five methods to enhance your brain's ability to absorb and retain new information in everyday life.

5. Meditate

Meditation has been known for its benefits for thousands of years. While the practice varies for each individual, it typically includes quiet, focused breathing exercises that help the practitioner reach a state of mental tranquility.

Studies have shown that adding mindfulness meditation to your daily routine can enhance emotional regulation and mental health — key components for improving interpersonal intelligence [source: Paley].

FMRI scans have demonstrated that regular meditation can alter the structure of the brain. Researchers believe that cognitive functions such as working memory, attention span, and focus are all positively impacted by meditation. One study even revealed that daily meditation could stimulate brain growth, enlarging parts of the cerebral cortex. Unsurprisingly, some of the most innovative global companies now offer meditation sessions for their employees.

The next time you take a break, consider trying a guided meditation. This simple practice can help you manage stress, so you'll be better prepared for any challenges life presents. And isn’t intelligence, at its core, the ability to solve problems?

4. Exercise Your Brain

Solving a crossword clue like two across is a fantastic mental workout.

Just as your body needs physical activity to stay healthy, your brain also requires regular exercise to maintain cognitive flexibility and mental agility as you age.

Other popular brain-boosting exercises include enjoyable activities like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and various word- and number-based challenges that require you to solve problems.

Not a fan of games? You can still sharpen your problem-solving skills through academic activities, such as solving math word problems or engaging with exercises focused on spatial relationships and geometry. Even reading this article is giving your brain a little workout.

If these suggestions feel too academic, try simple changes to your daily routine. Brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand or taking a different route to work forces your brain to work harder and step outside its comfort zone.

As you learn, your mental capacity expands. Therefore, dedicating time to absorb new information or learning a new language not only increases your knowledge but may also enhance your cognitive ability.

Be sure to focus your brainpower on solving problems and gaining new knowledge that genuinely sparks your interest. This will keep you engaged and motivated to continue learning.

3. Ingest Beneficial Bacteria

In June 2010, researchers from The Sage Colleges discovered that certain bacteria found in soil could make mice smarter. Mice that were given Mycobacterium vaccae performed better in maze tests, showed less anxiety, and had higher serotonin levels in the forebrain, which is responsible for higher cognitive functions. These bacteria seem to stimulate the growth of neurons.

Scientists believe there may be a link between the bacteria in our gut and the neurotransmitters in our brains.

Known as the microbiota gut-brain axis, the connection between gut bacteria and mental health or cognitive ability is not yet fully understood. However, a 2023 study suggests that the gut microbiome of infants could influence their early cognitive development.

This doesn’t mean we should start eating dirt, but you can naturally ingest beneficial bacteria through activities like gardening or simply walking through nature. Many foods, like yogurt and kimchi, also contain live bacteria that benefit your gut health.

2. Get Some Sleep

Brain exercises are essential for improving cognitive function, but what if the secret to boosting intelligence lies in sleep? Could it be as simple as giving your brain a break to enhance your abilities?

While we still don't understand everything about sleep, we now know that the old belief about the brain shutting down to recharge was incorrect. Current research shows that the brain may actually be doing some important mental housekeeping during sleep.

The information from the previous day gets sorted and organized into the right mental files, allowing it to move from short-term to long-term memory. This suggests that sleep plays a vital role in the process of learning new things.

Sleep disturbances have been shown to worsen other brain-related issues, which is why a full night of rest can enhance the brain's ability to focus and solve problems. Restful sleep also boosts energy levels, likely improving how sharp you appear. The CDC suggests that adults get at least seven hours of sleep each night.

1. Take Care of Your Body

The human body is an interconnected system, so caring for one part benefits others as well. Regular physical activity is vital for maintaining overall health, both for the body and the brain.

Simply improving blood circulation enhances oxygen and glucose delivery to the brain. The coordination required for physical activity also exercises the brain, particularly when you're trying something unfamiliar. Exercise helps counter a sedentary lifestyle that lacks mental stimulation.

Nutrition plays a crucial role too. Various foods are linked to brain health, including fish oil, eggs, protein, and leafy green vegetables. Green tea, herbal teas, and nuts are also considered excellent "brain food." These foods provide fatty acids that are the "building blocks" of brain cells and antioxidants that protect brain cells.

Proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular mental and physical exercises are essential for maintaining a healthy brain.