Issue Date: December 16, 2007
Protect your brain and heart, too
Fight Alzheimer's disease with heart-healthy behavior.
By Dr. Tedd Mitchell
Alzheimer's disease is becoming more prevalent as our society ages; 5 million Americans suffer from the devastating brain illness. Although the most important risk factor for developing Alzheimer's is advanced age (family history also is key), we all should understand the role that a healthy heart plays in keeping the brain healthy.
The same good habits -- like regular exercise, not smoking, and a diet heavy in fruits and vegetables -- that improve the health of blood vessels leading to the heart also improve the health of blood vessels to the brain.
Blood vessels play a key role in the brain.
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For your heart and brain:
Begin by finding out whether your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar are high. If they are, develop a strategy to improve them. That includes consulting your physician to find out if medical therapy is warranted. If so, don't hesitate to go on medication to reduce your risk, but remember that such medicine should supplement good habits, not serve as a substitute for them.
-- If you smoke, quit. It's critical for the health of your blood vessels.
-- If you don't exercise, start. Begin gently, but be consistent. Walking five days a week for 30 minutes is beneficial.
-- Follow a diet that gives your body plenty of nutrients. Emphasize fruits, vegetables and lean, protein-rich foods.
Risk-reducing activities like these will improve the health of your heart and brain, as well as your general health.
Contributing Editor Tedd Mitchell, M.D., writes HealthSmart every week.
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