Brain And Heart Health
Lifestyle Behaviors to “Think” About
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or everyone who is trying to stave off the effects of aging, the good news is, what’s good for your heart is also good for your head. Scientists at the University of Southern California have found that up to a third of Alzheimer’s Disease cases are preventable through lifestyle changes that have traditionally been prescribed to prevent heart disease. Research has found the following lifestyle behaviors to be associated with lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease:
3 0 | FOCUS ON WELLNESS
BRAIN AND HEART BOOSTERS • • • • •
EXERCISING REGULARLY EATING A HEALTHY DIET NOT SMOKING LOW ALCOHOL INTAKE MAINTAINING A HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT
People who consistently followed four or five of these healthy behaviors were 60% less likely to develop dementia and cognitive decline. Of all these behaviors, exercise was found to have the largest effect on lowering risk. Physical activity may benefit the brain in a number of ways, including improving blood flow to the brain, reducing inflammation and increasing insulin sensitivity. Findings suggest that the greatest benefits are to be gained by performing aerobic exercise (swimming, cycling, running, hiking, dancing) most days of the week. The foods we eat can also play a significant role in our risk of developing heart disease and dementia. The Standard American Diet - which is rich in calories, sugars, food additives and saturated fats
