Healthy Heart Lowers Risk Of Dementia

Reducing High Blood Pressure Can Lower Risk of Dementia. There has been a lot of talk lately about new “breakthroughs” in Dementia research, along with claims of how certain drugs such as beta blockers can help to reduce the risk of patients developing Alzheimers or other forms of Dementia. The underlying key element, however, is quite simple and doesn’t rely on drugs: reducing high blood pressure reduces your risk of developing Dementia. In other words, this is something that everyone can work towards on a daily basis, by making healthier lifestyle choices.

 

 

THE LINK BETWEEN HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND DEMENTIA

There are many factors and causes of Dementia, one of which is reduced blood flow to the brain. High blood pressure, or hypertension, puts extra strain on tiny, fragile blood vessels and can damage them, reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the critical areas of the brain. This damage can result in cell death, which is irreversible.

 

Reduced blood flow to the brain is known as Vascular Dementia, and is the second most common cause of dementia. (The first is Alzheimer’s Disease.)

 

HOW TO LOWER YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE

If you are concerned about your blood pressure be sure to consult your doctor in case you need medication or other medical treatment. The following is a list of changes that you can make to your lifestyle to naturally keep your blood pressure as healthy as possible.

• Stop smoking. Not only does tobacco smoke increase your blood pressure, but recent studies have shown that even being exposed to second hand smoke from others around you can increase your risk of developing Dementia.
• Keep active. I like this expression better than “get exercise”. You don’t have to be a gym bunny to stay fit. Doing 30 minutes of moderate exercise such as walking several times a week will help to keep your heart pumping and your metabolism running at a healthy rate.
• Consume less salt. Even if you aren’t overly liberal with the salt shaker on your dinner you can still be consuming well over the recommended daily amount. Take away food, snacks, processed meals, tinned foods and soft drinks are all often loaded with sodium.
• Reduce your Alcohol Intake. Does this advice sound familiar? You may have noticed that these tips are the most common ones that you hear for a multitude of health problems, and for good reason. Too much alcohol is another habit that can seriously damage your health, including raising your blood pressure. Keep your intake well within the recommended limit.

 

You can get more great tips and advice on healthy blood pressure at Blood Pressure UK.