Brain Health = Heart Health

The brain and the heart are the two most important organs in the human body. It is no wonder then that heart health and Alzheimer’s go hand in hand. Steady blood flow to grey matter in the brain is essential for fully functioning and healthy brain cells. In fact, 25% of the blood in each heartbeat goes to the brain to deliver the necessary nutrients. This includes carbohydrates, vitamins, hormones, and amino acids, and they give your brain the energy needed to think clearly and remember information.

Risk factors for dementia and Alzheimer’s include high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are also risk factors for heart disease. When the circulatory system is not functioning optimally, then the brain is not getting the right amount of blood needed. Also, scientists have found that there is a direct relationship between the plaque in arteries and plaque in the brain that leads to cognitive decline. Hardening of the arteries, a sign of heart disease, causes them to become clogged and stiff, resulting in an increased risk of stroke. Researchers found that those with plaque in arteries had about a 50% higher chance of beta-amyloid tangles, which are the plaque in the brain that is thought to cause Alzheimer’s.  

Two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women. Researchers are still trying to figure out why this is, but one thing that they have found is that there is a direct correlation between older women with heart-related issues and cognitive decline. In fact, female heart attack survivors were twice as likely to see declines in memory and thinking skills. 

The habits for a healthy lifestyle that protect against heart disease also help prevent Alzheimer’s. For instance, a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and veggies, lean meats, and healthy fats is vital for a healthy heart and brain. Regular exercise and stress management are also key for maintaining both cardiovascular and cognitive health. Physical activity plays an especially important role because it gets the blood pumping, which strengthens the heart and increases blood flow to the brain. Even activities that are more directly associated with strengthening brain health, like crossword puzzles, can be good for the heart because it may relieve stress. Simply stated – what’s good for your heart is good for your brain!