HEART Research Australia is highlighting the link between heart health and brain health for its upcoming REDFEB heart awareness month, held in Feb each year.
Around four million Australians are affected by cardiovascular disease, but Heart Research Australia points out that few realise that keeping their heart healthy can also help protect their brain, memory and cognitive function, reducing the risk of conditions like dementia as they age.
"Heart health and brain health are intimately connected," said clinical neuropsychologist Dr Miranda Say.
"The brain relies on a steady supply of blood from the heart, and conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol can disrupt blood flow, increasing the risk of stroke and cognitive decline, including dementia," she explained.
This REDFEB, Heart Research Australia is urging all Australians to prioritise their heart health by adopting simple lifestyle changes that can have a profound impact on their future wellbeing.
The organisation is encouraging Australians to adopt its 4-M Approach to heart and brain health:
Meals - high cholesterol levels can block blood vessels in the heart and brain, so a diet that avoids processed foods and favours fresh foods is recommended.
Movement - a combination of strength training and aerobic exercise lowers blood pressure, improves blood cholesterol and promotes the formation of new neural connections in the brain.
Measurement - regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar is essential to catch changes early and take action.
Mental wellness - mindfulness moments can help support cognitive and cardiovascular health.
Nicci Dent, CEO of Heart Research Australia, stressed the importance of taking proactive steps now.
"Prioritising heart health isn't just about preventing heart attacks - it's also about safeguarding your brain health and reducing your future risk of cognitive decline, including dementia," she said.
"The message is simple: what's good for your heart health is also good for your brain health." KB
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 14 Jan 25
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