What Is the Link Between Heart Health and Alzheimer’s?
It might surprise you to learn that taking care of your heart can also protect your brain. Researchers have found a strong connection between cardiovascular health and Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that what’s good for the heart is often good for the mind.
This relationship centers on how well the brain receives oxygen-rich blood and nutrients. When blood flow is impaired, the brain can suffer, increasing the risk of cognitive decline over time.
How Heart Health Affects the Brain
Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the brain. This damage reduces blood flow, making it harder for brain cells to function properly. Over time, it can lead to tissue loss and cognitive impairment.
Studies have shown that individuals with poor heart health in midlife are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s later on. For example, hypertension can contribute to the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques, one of the key features of Alzheimer’s disease.
Heart-Related Risk Factors to Watch
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- High LDL cholesterol
- Type 2 diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking and lack of physical activity
Each of these can increase the risk of both heart disease and dementia. Addressing them early can help protect long-term brain function.
What You Can Do to Protect Both Heart and Brain
- Maintain a balanced, heart-healthy diet such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet
- Exercise regularly, aiming for at least 150 minutes per week
- Keep blood pressure and cholesterol within recommended ranges
- Get regular health screenings and follow your physician’s recommendations
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
These habits not only support cardiovascular wellness but also help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
Final Thoughts
Your heart and brain are deeply connected. By supporting cardiovascular health, you can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s and improve your overall well-being. Preventive care doesn’t just extend life — it also preserves the quality of your cognitive function as you age.