Every action we take, from communication to making decisions or characterizing our personality, is linked to brain health. Which is the key to a fulfilling life.
According to the World Federation of Neurologists (WFN), brain diseases − like dementia and strokes − are the second leading cause of death worldwide.
“Caring for the health of our brain is necessary to maintain optimal quality of life as we get older. Getting used to a healthy lifestyle from childhood and taking precautionary measuresit may reduce the risk of cerebrovascular disease and promote healthy aging brain,” he said. information doctor Virginia Pujol Lereys(MN 119.987) Deputy Head of the Flaney Comprehensive Center for Vascular Neurology.
In turn, the doctor Veronica Tkachuk Department of Neurology at the UBA Clinical Hospital confirmed: “There are parameters and risk factors that have historically been associated with heart damage, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being overweight or obese, and smoking for lung cancer. It is very important to say that all these circumstances and habits also directly affect neurological health and that they may determine future diseases.” Therefore, promoting healthy habits is the best preventive measure. Universal access to professional care, treatment, rehabilitation and assistive technology is essential, and it is essential to start with sound education in this area in order to recognize these types of episodes in time.
In this sense, from the Department of Neurology of the Clinical Hospital, they emphasized that among the most common diseases:
– violation of cerebral circulation (CNS): This is a serious condition that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or a blood vessel ruptures. Its main risk factors are associated with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high cholesterol and smoking. According to WHO, today it is the second cause of death among non-communicable diseases.
– Dementia: More than 55 million people worldwide have dementia, more than 60% of them live in low- and middle-income countries. Almost ten million new cases are registered every year. Alzheimer’s disease affects almost 75% of patients in addition to other less common causes.
Doctor Gustavo H. Cerezo (MN 66.559), cardiologist member Argentine Federation of Cardiology (FAC)declared information that “we are a group of neurons that learn and contribute to our understanding of the world around us. But as we age, neurons wear out, brain function deteriorates, and our mental agility plunges into peaceful slowness.
Stroke and Alzheimer’s disease are two devastating conditions that threaten the brain: the former due to its sudden onset and disabling neurological consequences; the second is due to progressive memory loss up to the disappearance of one’s own identity. Both diseases are preventable if we keep our cardiovascular system healthy.
“Before the first forgetfulness or loss of memory, before the first symptom indicating the onset of a stroke, our brain suffered silently for years. The cerebral arteries became sick, lost their function and gradually became clogged. But timely intervention can prevent, delay or mitigate the consequences of damage to cerebral vessels, ”said the doctor. August Vicario (MN 67075), cardiologist, member of the FAC.
Both specialists agree that some recommendations can be useful both heart as well as brain health.
While there are genetic conditions and family history that predispose to some of the aforementioned pathologies, the best way to prevent them is to lead a healthy lifestyle that promotes the well-being of the body.
1 – Eat a balanced diet: Include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats such as those found in fish and nuts. Limit your intake of saturated fats, processed foods, and refined sugars.
2 – Maintain a healthy weight: being overweight increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including stroke. Maintaining a proper weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can greatly reduce this risk.
3 – Control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels: conduct regular medical examinations and follow the doctor’s instructions to keep these values under control within the individual goals for each person.
4 – Avoid tobacco use and alcohol abuse: smoking and excessive drinking are recognized risk factors for brain health
5 – Get regular physical activity: not only improves the cardiovascular system, but also benefits the brain. It is recommended that you do aerobic exercise such as walking, running or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
6 – improve night rest and control stress: Adequate sleep is vital for optimal brain function. It is advisable to look for tools to manage stress, such as by practicing relaxation techniques, meditation, or activities that are enjoyable.
7 – Keep your mind active: it can help strengthen brain connections and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. It is important to stimulate the brain by engaging in intellectual and challenging activities. Examples of this are reading books, solving puzzles, learning a new language, or playing a musical instrument.
8. Communicate Regularly: social isolation is associated with an increased risk of dementia. We must foster meaningful social connections with friends, family, and community. To do this, it is proposed to participate in social activities, join interest groups or engage in volunteer activities.
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