Healthy, active living makes for a healthy, active brain, research shows.
That’s the take away from a review of brain research in the June 1 edition of “Alzheimer’s & Dementia,” the scientific journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
“The research on cognitive decline is still evolving,” said Angela Geiger, chief strategy officer, Alzheimer’s Association, in a press release. “But there are actions people can take. Certain healthy behaviors known to combat cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes may also reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These include staying mentally active, engaging in regular physical activity and eating a heart-healthy diet that benefits your body and your brain. There is also some evidence people may benefit from staying socially engaged with friends, family and the community.”
So here are the Alzheimer’s Association’s “10 Ways to Love Your Brain:”
- Sweat
Regular physical activity that increases your heart rate and gets blood pumping to the heart (and brain) helps slow cognitive decline. - Study
Formal education at any stage of life helps slow decline, so take a class online or on campus. - Kick the butts
Stop smoking, and you’ll reduce your risk of cognitive decline to almost the levels of someone who’s never smoked. You’ll also reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease, strokes and lung disease. - Bless your heart
All that stuff you do to keep your heart healthy ““ keeping your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels where they should be ““ also protects your brain. - Protect your head
Traumatic brain injuries increase your risk of cognitive decline, so wear protective headgear for sports, use your seatbelt, etc. - Feed your head
Follow a healthy diet that’s high in fiber and healthy oils from fish and nuts, and low in the bad stuff, like sodium, sugar and saturated fats. Fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains are your friends. - Catch some ZZZs
Lack of sleep due to insomnia or other conditions might contribute to cognitive decline. - Protect your mental health
A strong link exists between depression and cognitive decline, so seek treatment if you have problems with depression or anxiety. Take steps, if you can, to manage stress. - Send out some friend requests
Staying socially engaged may protect cognitive function. - Puzzle it out
Activities that keep your brain busy ““ puzzles and games, creative pursuits like writing or painting ““ may help guard against cognitive decline.
