Why a Healthy Heart = A Sharp Mind (Surprising Link!)
We’ve long known that heart health plays a critical role in overall wellness, but new research reveals how deeply the heart and brain are connected.
In a groundbreaking scientific statement, the American Heart Association (AHA) has linked three common cardiovascular diseases to an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
This revelation underscores a key point…
Protecting your heart isn’t just about preventing heart attacks—it’s also about preserving your brain function as you age.
Researchers have understood for some time that the heart and the brain influence each other.
For example, heart failure can reduce blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of cognitive decline. On the other hand, strokes that affect certain parts of the brain can impair heart function.
However, the AHA’s new statement takes this understanding one step further. It shows that common heart conditions may contribute to cognitive impairment through links such as inflammation and the presence of harmful biomarkers—like amyloid, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s.
Researchers found that the inflammation driving heart disease is remarkably similar to the inflammatory processes in the brain during cognitive decline. This inflammation, along with factors like hypertension and diabetes, can alter how the brain processes and clears harmful proteins, including amyloid.
The research also reveals that specific genetic markers increase a person’s risk for heart and brain disorders. This suggests that the connection between these two organs begins as early as conception.
The AHA’s findings reveal the vital role of early intervention. Researchers stress that the earlier you address heart health, the greater your chances are of staving off cognitive decline.
While some factors, such as genetics, can’t be controlled, many of the key drivers of heart disease and cognitive decline—including hypertension, diabetes, and obesity—can be addressed with simple lifestyle changes.
This means that taking steps to protect your heart, such as eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress, can also protect your brain.
We still have a lot to learn about the heart-brain link. However, the following actionable steps are good for your health regardless of what else we learn about the relationship…
- Stay on Top of Heart Health: Regularly monitor and manage critical cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Early detection and treatment of heart disease can reduce the risk of long-term damage to both the heart and brain.
- Embrace Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Since inflammation plays a significant role in heart disease and cognitive decline, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet is vital. Focus on nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, fatty fish, and nuts. These foods can help reduce inflammation and protect both your heart and brain.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity boosts heart function, improves circulation, and enhances cognitive performance. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
Lifestyle changes are essential; however, in some cases, supplements can provide extra support for heart and brain health. Here are a few to consider…
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 plays a critical role in energy production and improves heart health, particularly in those with heart failure. Some studies suggest it also helps protect cognitive function by reducing oxidative stress in the brain.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats, found in fish oil supplements, are well-known for their heart-protective properties. Omega-3s also support brain health by reducing inflammation and promoting the structural integrity of brain cells.
- Turmeric (Curcumin): This potent anti-inflammatory supports heart and brain health. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, can help reduce inflammation and may discourage the buildup of amyloid plaques, which are linked to Alzheimer’s.
- Magnesium: Magnesium helps regulate blood pressure and supports overall heart function. The mineral also plays a role in protecting brain health by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and supporting cognitive function.
When you take steps to protect your cardiovascular system, you’re also protecting your cognitive function.
P.S. Surprising veggie hack for better heart health.
Source:
AHA Scientific Statement Links Three Common Cardiovascular Diseases to Cognitive Decline, Dementia – Medscape – October 18, 2024.
Written By Dr. Richard Gerhauser, M.D.
For years he’s been the trusted doctor for celebrities, world-class athletes, and countless seniors looking to reclaim their health.
And now…for the first time ever… he’s making his medical breakthroughs available to readers all across America.
Dr. Richard Gerhauser, M.D. is one of the most pioneering and innovative minds in medicine today – and he delivers cutting-edge cures each month through his Natural Health Response newsletter.
Natural Health Response readers get full access to Dr. Gerhauser’s protocols for chronic pain… heart disease… diabetes… Alzheimer’s… and even cancer. These are the very same treatments Dr. Gerhauser recommends to his own patients at his practice in Tucson, Arizona.
In addition to being a board-certified medical doctor, Dr. Gerhauser has earned two master’s degrees and has served as a clinical professor at the University of Arizona.
And as a physician at the world-famous Canyon Ranch, Dr. Gerhauser treated celebrities from around the world who paid dearly for the type of next-generation health information he provides Natural Health Response readers each month.
View More Free Articles
The Bad Habit Robbing YEARS from Your Life
I often get eye-rolls when I stress just how essential lifestyle factors like light reducing pollution and grounding are good for health. But new research continually proves that I’ve been right all along. Today, a critical new study shows that something I’ve warned you about for YEARS is tied to a 34 percent increased risk […]
Reduce Colon Cancer Risk by 30%
More than 150,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer yearly. Another 35,000 will get a liver cancer diagnosis. But if you have type 2 diabetes, your risk of developing one of these skyrockets—a 47 percent increased risk of colorectal cancer, and a two to three times higher risk of liver cancer. That’s why I’m excited […]
“Dinner Plate” Danger Raises Prostate Risk
Did you know that prostate cancer is FAR more prevalent in developed parts of the world than in less developed regions? Strange right? What is it about our modern, developed society that’s attacking our male population? There are MANY answers to this question. The primary one I will focus on today is a significant environmental […]
The 5-Minute Solution to Better Blood Pressure
Are you one of the millions who battle the so-called “silent killer” hypertension? And do you have five minutes to spare daily? If so, you could be well on your way to significantly healthier blood pressure. Sound too good to be true? A new study proves it. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy If […]
“Eye-Opening” Benefits of Pistachios
Imagine if there were a daily snack that could protect your vision. Well, a recent study brings good news for the 20 million U.S. adults already battling macular degeneration—the leading cause of vision loss for those over 60. Adding a handful of pistachios to your diet might help shield your eyesight. Let’s take a “look.” […]
Get Better Blood Sugar This Holiday Season
Let’s face it. The holidays are NOT good for your waistline… or your blood sugar levels. Potlucks, family dinners, cookie exchanges, Christmas parties… you know the drill. So, if you’re one of the 98 million people on the brink of type 2 diabetes, it’s VITAL to take steps to manage your blood sugar levels as […]
Common Vitamin Is a Hidden Colon Cancer Shield
With aggressive colon cancer on the rise in younger people, I’m always on the lookout for research showing how we can all lower our risks. Over the past few months, I’ve shared studies showing that stress, oral bacteria, obesity, and circadian disruption are all tied to colon cancer. And just last week I revealed how […]
Ditch Dieting for Better Blood Sugar Control
I’ll just say this right upfront… Type 2 diabetes is a lifestyle issue. And while diet is PART of the equation, it’s not the only thing to consider when managing your blood sugar. Over the past few months, I’ve highlighted research showing that factors like your bedtime and activity levels impact diabetes risk. Today, I […]
Slash Painful Nighttime Leg Cramps
On this Veterans Day, my team and I honor and thank all who have served in our armed forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and dedication to protecting our nation’s freedoms will never be forgotten. Not all health problems are life-threatening. There are plenty that threaten your quality of life. Nighttime leg cramps are one of them. […]
Life-Saving Fats Shield Against Cancer—Here’s How
The word “cancer” alone can stir up fear and worry, especially as we watch friends or family face its challenges. It’s one of the most brutal battles our bodies can go through. And prevention has never been more essential. While there are no guarantees, we have more tools than ever to reduce our risks. And […]