Habits might seem harmless at times, but they could affect brain health and speed up memory loss. Some of these habits are unhealthy to other areas of the body and aren’t usually thought of as brain-related.

Here are seven habits that could bring on memory loss:

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1. Losing sleep can deny the brain of its ability to process information while the body is at rest. The body not only recharges during sleep, but the brain also retains new information, according to WebMD. If you’re not getting enough sleep, it may impair brain function and the learning process.

2. Certain foods may accelerate memory loss, Alzheimers.net reports. Usually these foods are ones nutrition experts want you to avoid anyway, such as processed meats and processed cheeses, as well as white bread, white rice, pasta, and sugar. Leafy green vegetables, salmon, berries, coffee, chocolate, and extra virgin olive oil are good for your body and your memory.

3. Taking too many photos could impair the brain’s ability to retain memories. The Huffington Post says research shows people who simply looked at displays in a museum had better memory retention than those taking pictures of the displays, so make sure you stop to appreciate what's around you.

4. Isolation or becoming a recluse could contribute to a decline in memory. People who don’t involve themselves with friendships or closeness to family members have an increased risk of memory problems, HelpGuide.org reports. Instead of paying attention to selfies and other phone activities, people can maintain a healthy memory with face-to-face communication.

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5. Excess amounts of alcohol may speed memory loss. A study published in the Jan. 28, 2014, issue of Neurology found that men had faster cognitive decline when drinking excessively compared to those who drank light to moderate amounts of alcohol. Moderate drinking is usually defined as no more than two drinks per day for men or one drink for women.

6. Smoking can wreak havoc on the memory process. Research has shown that smokers don’t remember the names and faces of people as well as nonsmokers do, according to Harvard Medical School. Smoking may be more of an addiction than a habit, but giving it up can improve blood flow to the brain to help neurons strengthen memory.

7. Watching too much television and taking in visuals instead of reading could contribute to memory loss, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Not reading enough deprives the brain of functions related to cognitive skills later on. Research suggests reading could help prevent dementia.

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