Given the forecast of a significant increase in cases of insanity By 2050, it is crucial to adopt preventative strategies from an early age.
We explore some fundamental habits for the preservation of brain health, emphasizing the importance of preventive actions against dementia.
Habits to maintain a healthy lifestyle – Image: Wallau Saúde/Reproduction
1. Physical activity
Physical exercise is essential for brain health. A World Health Organization recommends between 150 and 300 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic activity per week.
These activities include brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or any exercises that increase your heart rate.
The benefits of exercise for the brain are vast, including improving blood flow and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is linked to the development of dementia.
2. Prevention of brain injuries
Preventing brain injuries is a crucial aspect in the fight against dementia. Head injuries can cause brain damage that increases the risk of dementia.
Preventative measures include wearing helmets when cycling or playing contact sports, as well as being careful about falls in everyday life, especially for older people.
3. Diabetes prevention
Type 2 diabetes is another known risk factor for dementia. Maintain a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, carry out physical exercises regularly and maintaining a healthy body weight are key measures to prevent diabetes.
These actions not only reduce your risk of diabetes, they also contribute to overall brain health.
4. Blood pressure control
The relationship between hypertension and dementia is alarming. Studies indicate that high blood pressure, especially in middle age, increases the risk of developing dementia in old age.
Therefore, monitoring and keeping blood pressure under control is essential.
This can be achieved through a balanced diet, reduced salt consumption, regular physical exercise and, when necessary, the use of prescribed medications.
5. Education and cognitive activity
The importance of education and cognitive stimulation in preventing dementia is undeniable.
Studies show that continuing education until late adolescence and engaging in brain-challenging activities after age 45 are vital.
Such practices include reading, solving crosswords, learning new languages or skills, and even participating in courses and workshops. These stimuli keep the brain active and can significantly slow cognitive decline in old age.
In addition to these habits, it is interesting to try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This not only improves brain health, but contributes to healthy aging, increasing quality of life and reducing the risk of dementia.
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