Memory loss is one of the most common fears expressed as the years go by, even more so than loss of physical ability. The brain being a dynamic organ, it is in constant adaptation, whether in a good or bad way. This is why, for example, lack of sleep can seriously interfere with memory. On the other hand, a healthy lifestyle supports brain health and contributes to the synthesis of new neurons, a process called neurogenesis.

The hippocampus, the center of memory, is able to develop new cells throughout life, even at advanced ages, if given the right tools.

Here are 9 surprising factors that may or may not have a positive impact on the proper functioning of your memory.

1. The thyroid, although it has no specific role in the brain, is often linked to memory problems. Indeed, most patients with hyper or hypothyroidism have problems with memory and concentration.

2. At menopause, hot flashes, night sweats and insomnia are common. All three of these factors interfere with good sleep and can contribute to memory loss.

3. Let's talk about sleep, precisely. The brain's growth process is the basis for its ability to control behavior, memory and learning. Lack of sleep and rest can alter the expression of several genes important for synaptic plasticity. In addition, some neural processes associated with learning and memory occur during sleep, suggesting that synaptic connections are strengthened while you sleep. Some studies have even shown that a mid-day nap can significantly increase memory and help restore gray matter.

4. Stress, anxiety, and depression are also closely linked to memory decline. An increase in the level of cortisol, the stress hormone, caused by anxiety and depression, induces a loss of synapses, which connect brain cells. As a result, memory is weakened and neural circuits are disrupted.

5. Taking certain medications inevitably interferes with memory. Anxiety medications such as Xanax and Valium impair both short and long-term memory. Antidepressants, statins, beta-blockers, analgesics, sleeping pills and antihistamines have also been implicated in numerous studies.

6. The cigarette interferes with the brain's blood supply, which can lead to memory loss. Studies also suggest that smokers have a more rapid decline in brain function, including memory. Smoking leads to an accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, which directly affects the transmission of information.

7. People exposed to more germs, such as herpes simplex virus, showed a 25 percent lower cognitive test score than those with less infectious background. Research has concluded that infections may contribute to cognitive decline, possibly due to damage to blood vessels.

8. As for green tea, it has proven its positive effects on brain function. Researchers had 12 healthy volunteers consume a drink containing 27.5 grams of green tea extract. These individuals showed increased connectivity between the parietal and frontal cortex compared to those who did not drink the beverage. This increase in connectivity stimulates brain performance and memory. Therefore, the researchers believe that green tea could be used for cognitive disorders, including dementia.

9. Physical exercise encourages the brain to work optimally by stimulating the multiplication of nerve cells, strengthening their interconnections and protecting them from damage. During exercise, nerve cells release proteins, including one in particular called BDNF (Brain-Derived Neutrophic Factor) that triggers many other chemical factors, promoting neural health. One study showed that people who exercise have an expansion of the memory center of 1 to 2 percent per year, while in case of sedentary life, this part would have declined.