We all know we should be doing some things (diet, exercise and such) to keep our bodies healthy, now researchers are finding that these healthy heart tips offer brain benefits that help your mind sharp as the years pass. So while genetics and chance play a part in memory loss, cancer, strokes and brain disease, the health of your brain isn’t completely out of your hands according experts.
That’s welcome news to the estimated 500 million people who are 65 or over… 12% of the earth’s population. As we move forward, the number of patients struggling with cognitive issues due to age will only go up, pressing hard on health care resources already near the breaking point.
To keep your brain and body in good shape, forget some of the often-touted cure alls and follow these simple suggestions…
- Always use a helmet when playing sports or out on your bicycle or motorcycle. This holds for adults as well as children.
- Learn what the signs of concussion are, and don’t dismiss a head injury just because there are no physical signs of trauma. Get checked out.
- Watch your cholesterol and blood pressure. By doing all you can to keep your cardiovascular system healthy you’ll keep your brain in fine form too.
- Eat a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, veggies, whole grains and protein to give your body the nutrients it needs, and avoid the dangerous ingredients often found in junk food (saturated fats, sugars, additives).
- Exercise regularly as being active improves nerve cell formation and lifespan in areas of the brain – it’s one of the key recommendations to be made for keeping both body and brain in good health.
- Drink alcohol in moderation.
- Don’t smoke. If you do, make a sincere effort to quit or at least cut down.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep needs change as we get older, so be sure you’re getting enough to feel rested.
- Manage your stress using whatever technique works best for you… relaxation breathing, meditation or physical exercise are just a few good ones to try.
- Give your brain regular workouts – in whatever way is right for you, puzzles and games are fine, as are pursuing hobbies you enjoy… playing chess, reading, needlework, learning a language. Staying engaged mentally as you age has been shown in earlier work to help hold off at least some mental declines.
- Know the signs of stroke, and call for help at once if you think you’re having one. 25% of all strokes happen in those under 65 years old, and even a child or young adult can suffer one. Getting treated as soon as possible after the event is key to recovery.
- Use your cell phone with care. While the research remains inconclusive at present, some experts believe that using the speakerphone function or a headset is a smart move to keep your brain healthy. Perhaps the phones don’t up the risk of a brain tumor, or perhaps we simply won’t have conclusive evidence for several decades.
As researchers work to get a more thorough understanding of aging and diseases all through the body, living a healthy lifestyle and following healthy heart tips continues to show itself as the simple, natural way to maximize brain benefits and keep the mind in top form.