The World Federation of Neurology established World Brain Day in 2014 to raise awareness about the importance of preventing brain diseases.
We’ve put together a few interesting facts for you:
Brain weight does not determine intelligence. On average, the human brain weighs between 1,200 and 1,400 grams, and Einstein’s brain weighed 1,230 grams.
Your brain generates about 6,200 thoughts per day. This estimate comes from researchers at Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada, who analysed transitions between individual thoughts in brain scans (without assessing their “quality”).
The brain is extremely energy‑hungry. Although it makes up only about 2% of body weight, it consumes roughly 10% of the body’s energy. Under intense mental load, local energy use can increase, and overall brain energy expenditure is often described as reaching up to a quarter of daily calories.
Sleep is critical for brain function. Chronic sleep deprivation impairs memory, decision‑making, concentration and emotional stability. Without enough sleep, the brain struggles to process information and regulate behaviour. We have already written about sleep here – highly recommended reading.
The brain needs physical activity. Regular movement improves blood flow, supports the growth of new nerve cells and connections, and helps slow age‑related cognitive decline. You can choose an activity you enjoy from our list.
The brain is the “fattiest” organ in the body. In terms of dry weight (excluding water), about 60% of the brain is made up of fats, making it one of the most lipid‑rich organs we have.
Neurons and axons drive our thoughts and actions. Neurons are nerve cells that send and receive electrical signals. These signals travel along specialised projections called axons, some of which can be more than 1 metre long.