Our brain is truly versatile: it deals with countless information and sensory impressions, controls our movements, allows us to think, to feel and to remember.
However, the prevention of our most complex organ is often the subject of too little attention. “The importance of brain health is still too little known,” said Professor Peter Berlit of German Neurology Society.
“However, it is obvious that the prevention of neurological diseases such as dementia is at least as effective as that of heart disease. This subject is becoming more important as neurological diseases are increasing sharply.
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In Luxembourg, the number of people with dementia is estimated at around 9,000, and this trend is upwards.
Many risks can be treated in a targeted manner. According to the journal Lancet, there are now 14 factors which are manifestly linked to denial diseases and which can be avoided or treated.
These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, smoking, depression, isolation, hearing loss, the decrease in age -related view and head trauma (hence the importance of carrying a bicycle helmet!).
Often, risk factors are not detected because they do not cause any symptoms for a long time or evolve insidiously. This is why it is important to regularly control its blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A cholesterol level and normal blood pressure reduces the formation of deposits in the brain vessels and avoid circulatory disorders. “High blood pressure is a particularly important risk factor for brain vascular accidents and dementia,” warns Berlit. “If it is raised, it must be treated and controlled rigorously. »»
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The way of life plays a decisive role in keeping a lively mind. Education, intellectual activity and a healthy lifestyle from an early age constitute the bases from which we can take advantage later.
Between 40 and 60 years, many factors that put the brain in danger appear, such as lipid metabolism, diabetes or high blood pressure. It is particularly important to act now to at least slow down the degradation processes. But it is never too late, the experts underline. “Even at an advanced age, correction of the corresponding risk factors still provides profits, so it is always worth mobilizing!” “, Underlines the neurologist.
The brain is developing over the tasks it accomplishes: to remain efficient for a long time, it needs diversity, sensory stimuli and challenges. Because what is not used ends up deteriorating, according to the principle “use it or loose it”.
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Stay curious and are constantly interested in new subjects strengthens cognitive reserves. “It is important to regularly confront different ideas and contrary opinions,” explains Mr. Berlit. Social contacts, which act as a shield against depression and mental decline, also contribute to it. Loneliness, on the other hand, is harmful: it promotes depressive moods, which in turn increase the risk of dementia.
You have to monitor your stress level and try to find a good balance. A demanding work can be stimulating, but it is proven that permanent stress harms the brain. However, those who no longer leave their comfort zone do not solicit their gray matter sufficiently. It is therefore important to deliberately get out of your habits, for example by learning a new language, playing chess or making music with other people. Travel also has a revitalizing effect on the mind.
Do a lot of exercise and eat balanced
According to studies, persons, naturally active are less affected by dementia. Sport and physical exercise have a direct effect on the brain, improve blood circulation, stimulate the formation of new nerve cells, increase concentration capacity and relax at the same time.
Particularly recommended: couple dance, because this sport calls for different areas of the brain at the same time. The dancers must move together to the rhythm of the music, memorize sequences of complex steps and coordinate with their partner: a real multitasking exercise for the brain control center!
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Food also plays an important role. Mediterranean cuisine, rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, olive oil and fish, is considered particularly beneficial. On the other hand, alcohol, processed foods and excess sugar promote risk factors such as overweight, high blood pressure and diabetes. A high blood sugar level damages the blood vessels of the brain and promotes deposits on the vascular walls. “This can cause poor brain nerve cell irrigation,” said Berlit.
In recent years, the intestine has also been the subject of particular attention. The billions of microorganisms there are in close interaction with the brain. A balanced intestinal microbiome can alleviate inflammation and possibly protect against diseases such as Parkinson’s disease or dementia. Food, stress, drugs: all these factors influence this fragile connection between the intestine and the brain.
The best is to start with something that makes you happy: to dance, read a specialized book, play games or simply see your friends more often. The mixture of intellectual stimulation, physical activity and social contacts is the best training for gray cells, at any age.
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