Aging, Healthy Lifestyle and Brain Function

Aging may be a factor in decreased brain function, but healthy lifestyle choices play an important role as well. Keeping fit physically can help reduce the effects of aging of the brain as you grow older. It's not too late to make the right choices in regards to aging, healthy lifestyle and brain function.

As we age, changes in the brain occur, such as shrinking in certain areas, narrowing blood vessels, inflammation and free radical damage. Although some of these changes cannot be prevented, there are some choices we can make regarding a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of decreased brain function.

Is High Cholesterol Linked to Decreased Brain Function? It was believed that high cholesterol levels were associated with Alzheimer's Disease. Actually, studies showed that those who were treated with certain cholesterol-lowering drugs had a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease. It appears that it is perhaps the use of these medications rather than the cholesterol itself may have a positive or negative affect on the development of Alzheimer's Disease.

Although high cholesterol levels may not directly lead to Alzheimer's Disease, narrowed blood vessels from cholesterol buildup can affect blood flow to the brain. You can help keep cholesterol levels in check with a healthy diet and exercise. If your cholesterol levels cannot be managed by diet and exercise alone, there are prescription medications that can help. See your doctor to discuss your options.

Aerobic Exercise Has Been Shown to Decrease Loss of Brain Tissue. Aging causes a decrease in brain tissue. However, studies show that those who participated in aerobic activity even short term had an increase in brain functioning than those who did not exercise.

Consistent exercise also keeps adequate blood flow and oxygen to the brain, keeping brain tissue healthy. It's always best to check with your doctor before changing your diet or beginning an exercise program.

Mental Activity Can Reduce Loss of Brain Function. Being mentally fit as well as physically fit can reduce your risk for decreased brain function as you age. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can keep your mind active and alert. Some activities include challenging word or math puzzles or even learning a new language.

Other types of mental activity to consider are those involving others. Socialization is important to the mind as we age and should not be overlooked as a way to stimulate brain functioning. Older adults who live alone may want to find a way to participate in social activities through the help of family, friends or social service agencies.

These are just a few positive choices that can be made to prevent decreased brain function during the aging process. What benefits the health of your body can also benefit the health of your mind, so remember the connection between again, healthy lifestyle and brain function.

REFERENCES:

Ledesma MD & Dotti CG; The conflicting role of brain cholesterol in Alzheimer's disease: lessons from the brain plasminogen system; pubmed.com

Gary W. Small, M.D., et al.; Effects of a 14-Day Healthy Longevity Lifestyle Program on Cognition and Brain Function; The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry