Scientists have long studied the linkage between the heart and the brain and found that generally, what’s good for your heart is also good for your brain. A recipe for a strong heart that includes eating right, exercising, and monitoring important health numbers can also help keep the brain sharp. Understanding how the brain and heart work together is essential to improving your overall health. Today we’re sharing some intelligent lifestyle choices that help prevent heart disease but may also keep your mind healthy.
How to Keep Your Brain and Heart Healthy
By working to keep your heart healthy, you will also lower your risk of developing many brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, as well as lessen your risk of stroke and heart attack. Fortunately, taking the necessary steps to improve your heart and brain health is easy! Try incorporating these steps into your daily routine to have a sound heart and mind at any age.
Exercise regularly
When it comes to discussing how exercise can help your heart and mind, “exercise regularly” can be confusing to some. Truthfully, there is no wrong way to it. Everyone is different but experts recommend 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. This can include anything from a brisk walk to cycling. This is just enough time to improve brain function and boost heart health. No matter what you choose, get moving if you’re looking to keep your brain and heart healthy.
Eat a balanced diet
Eating a well-balanced diet can be one of the most significant ways to observe how the brain and heart work together. If you’re looking to improve brain power, a good place to start is by adopting a diet filled with colorful fruits & vegetables, healthy fats, lean meats and whole grains. Recent studies suggest that these foods can supply your body with substances that may prevent and protect against the early stages of cognitive decline. Try to avoid processed foods & sugary beverages and drink alcohol sparingly. Not only will this diet help improve your overall health, but you’ll also end up feeling great, too!
Get quality sleep
Getting high-quality sleep may be able to help protect your brain, but over 60% of Americans report their sleep needs aren’t being met. Poor sleep quality has been linked to numerous health risks like high blood pressure, clogged arteries, diabetes and stroke. Recent research now suggests that getting a good night’s sleep may help the brain to clear out toxic beta-amyloid waste products that can contribute to memory loss. If you have a hard time falling asleep or wake up often, experts recommend:
- Turn off your screens
- Create a bedtime ritual
- Stick to a schedule
- Avoid alcohol
- Watch what you eat before bedtime
Stress less
Chronic stress can not only interfere with your mood, but it can also negatively affect your heart, sleep and appetite. In stressful situations, your brain produces chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline. When these waves of stress hormones flow through your body, in some rare cases they can provoke irregular heartbeats which can lead to an immediate heart attack. To reduce the stress in your life, try the mind-body connection known as meditation. Meditation can help improve your mood, lower blood pressure, help your body function better and significantly reduce your stress levels.
If you’ve been looking for the best cardiologists near me, stop your search now and call the professionals at AMS Cardiology. We have been helping patients in Bucks and Montgomery County for over 40 years with comprehensive cardiovascular care. From sharing smart preventative care tips like “How does exercise help your heart?” to performing a broad list of services like echocardiograms and cardiac catheterization, we are committed to preventing and treating all aspects of cardiovascular disease. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment at 215-517-1000.
