You can potentially add years to your life by keeping your heart and brain healthy. The same things that keep your heart healthy can also keep your brain healthy. You can take the following steps to protect your heart and brain.
Exercise on a Regular Basis
Exercise has physical and mental health benefits. Experts recommend that you get a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity in per day. Cycling, dancing, walking and jogging are examples of some physical activity that you can do. You will also need to add strength training exercises into your routine.
There are several ways that exercise can protect your heart and brain. It helps keep your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol within the right range. It also helps strengthen the heart. Furthermore, studies have shown that exercise can ease feelings of anxiety and depression. There has also been evidence to suggest that exercise can protect against cognitive decline.
Get The Proper Amount of Sleep
Sleep is essential for good health. It helps the body repair itself and recover from
the day’s activities. People who get the proper amount of rest are less likely to develop heart disease. Experts also believe that sleeping helps the brain clear out abnormal proteins.
Keep in mind that it is much better for you to sleep for seven to eight consecutive hours than it is for you to sleep in two to three hour increments. Consecutive sleep helps your body consolidate the memories.
Eat a Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet helps you maintain heart and brain health. It places emphasis on healthy fats like olive oil, plant-based foods and whole grains. Red meat is something that is eaten less often. Studies have shown that people who follow a Mediterranean-style diet are less likely to develop heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Maintain an Active Social Life
Studies have shown that isolation can be just as bad for heart health as smoking and being sedentary. Being around family and friends also helps your mind stay sharp. Additionally, having an active social life helps fight off feelings of anxiety and depression.
It is important to look for opportunities to interact with other people. This is especially important if you live alone. Studies have shown that living alone can lead to brain atrophy, which is the wasting away of muscle mass. On the other hand, maintaining an active social life can have the opposite effect.