How To Prevent Brain Aging
Cognitive decline occurs most commonly in older adults. Symptoms of cognitive decline include impairments in normal brain function abilities such as memory, awareness, judgment, and mental acuity. It is estimated that two-thirds of Americans will experience a degree of cognitive decline by the age of 70.
Some common conditions that are defined by moderate to severe cognitive decline include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia.
The Link Between Blood Pressure and Brain Aging
A recent study follow up of a small portion of participants from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study that took place in 1985-1986 “researchers examined changes in brain structures in midlife (average age 55) from cumulative exposures to vascular risk factors, including high blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, smoking and glucose, from young adulthood to midlife.” Researchers also evaluated if there were any correlation between results and race or ethnicity.
Researchers were surprised by the results of the examinations. The results showed that higher blood pressure exposure during a young age produced more visible changes in the brain at midlife, which increased the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Results were consistent across all races and ethnic groups when accounting for high blood pressure.
As this was a small follow up study from the nearly 5000 participants in the CARDIA study, further follow ups are required to prove these findings. But these findings are significant enough to promote early high blood pressure management in young adults.
STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO REDUCE BLOOD PRESSURE
Managing high blood pressure at a young age may be able to help prevent or delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline based on the recent findings. What are some steps you can take now to help lower your risk of high blood pressure?
- Heart-healthy diet – Dr. Warner is a huge proponent of the Mediterranean Diet
- Stay active
- Get enough sleep
- Do not smoke
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Avoid processed foods and added sugars
Helps Lower LDL
Helps Improve Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that Pterostilbene has the ability to improve cholesterol and blood pressure to help improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Strengthens Heart
Vitamin K + Olive Softgels reduce arterial calcification and reduces the risk of heart disease and overall mortality. Improves blood flow and circulation and keeps arteries more flexible and responsive. The olive oil is anti-inflammatory as well.
Healing Redefined by Dr. Meredith Warner
Dr. Meredith Warner is the creator of Well Theory and The Healing Sole. She is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Air Force Veteran.
She is on a mission to disrupt traditional medicine practices and promote betterment physically, spiritually and mentally to many more people. She advocates for wellness and functional health over big pharma so more people can age vibrantly with more function and less pain.
At Well Theory, Our surgeon-designed products are FDA Registered and formulated to help people:
- Manage the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain
- Recover vibrantly from orthopedic related surgeries
- Fill the gaps in our daily diets
- Manage pain associated with inflammation