Even at the age of 2, the idea that parts of our body works together becomes obvious. There are no doubts that all the systems of the body are connected to each other. Some are connected directly, but all to a certain degree since they share common circulation and are controlled by the actions of the same endocrine nervous system. Our overall health and wellness depends on all these systems working together and interacting effectively.
For many years now, practices like yoga have emphasized about the connection between the mind and the body, and it looks like the yogis are right.
A recent study from the American Heart Association revealed that the brains health and dementia are related to this very seven factors we shall be looking at in this article. These seven preventive tips or practices, will not only ensure you have a healthy heart but it will help you avoid dementia later in life.
These seven health practices and tips you will get to see, can help you minimize atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries) which occurs as you age. As these fat deposits, or plaques, grow in your arteries in various parts of your body, they interfere with the flow of blood and the delivery of oxygen and fuel to your different organs.
7 Tips For a Healthy Brain and Heart as You Age
1. Quit smoking (or do not start at all)
It is no news that smoking can lead to cancer and a number of serious health issues. This makes smoking one of the worst contribution you can give to your body. Apart from it causing cancer or damaging your lungs, it can also damage the arteries in your brains, thereby resulting to atherosclerosis, which can cause stroke or dementia.
2. Lose extra weight
While you might think gaining a few extra pound is not really a big deal, but I will like to let you know that you are better off without that extra weight. The extra weight you gain makes your organs work harder. Recent knowledge have been acquired on the bad chemical and endocrine effects obesity have as well.
3. Exercise or get physically active
Physical activity or exercise is one way to prevent heart disease and dementia. Therefore, you should maintain a healthy weight and save yourself the risk of these diseases.
One of the best ways to maintain an overall health is by exercising regularly. This does not mean that you need to become a "gym lover", but it is worth it when you make a physical commitment to your health. You should aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3 to 5 days a week. Engage in any physical activities you enjoy and try to maintain it.
4. Maintain a normal blood sugar level
The sugar that you consume throughout a day are converted into glucose. When they are left unchecked, they can result to high sugar level and this can also cause atherosclerosis.
For normal people who are not suffering from diabetes, their blood sugar level typically varies from 70 and 140 mg/dL. This is consider a normal and healthy range of blood sugar level. You can regulate your blood sugar level by eating a healthy and consistent diet with a moderate amount of exercise.
5. Control your cholesterol level
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that aids the normal functioning of your body. When you keep the level of bad cholesterol low, you are ensured of a good brain health.
Cholesterol is very important, it is found in our foods and we need it to survive. But too much cholesterol ib our body becomes a problem. When it is high, it can build up in your arteries causing them to stiffen and narrow. You can monitor your cholesterol level by always visiting your healthcare center and avoid the consumption of high cholesterol foods like red meat.
6. Manage your blood pressure
Blood pressure is simply defined as the measurement of how the blood is being pushed through your circulatory system. High blood pressure could be a sign that your artery walls are hardening and that your heart is working too hard. Though high blood pressure can be an inherited trait, but it gets worsened by high levels of stress, excess salt, smoking, inactivity and extra weight. All these can lead to heart disease.
To maintain a good blood pressure, you should stick to a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Also you should practice mindfulness and keep your stress levels low.
7. Eat a healthy diet
"You are what you eat", is a fitting adage for why a proper diet is important. Just like an engine, the quality of fuel determines how well the engine can perform, and also its lifespan. A healthy diet have a positive influence to everything in your body, and it is one of the most important factor for a healthy body and mind.
Eat all foods in moderation and try to keep a balance of eating the main food groups. Following these tips can help you maintain a good brain and heart health even as you age.
