Heart & Brain

Why a diet that is good for the heart can also ward off forgetfulness later in life, a study suggests.

Researchers looked at 5000 volunteers from a long-running women’s health study, who had been asked about their diet when they were aged 35 to 65, then about six cognitive issues when they were over 65.

They found those who had the most heart-healthy diets were 17% less likely to exhibit cognitive decline.

Scientists comparted volunteers’ eating habits to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which is low in salt, sugar and red meat, and high in fruit, vegetables, legumes and nuts, low-fat dairy, and grains.   Experts believe it also keeps the brain healthy – likely by reducing inflammation.

Professor Yu Chen, from NYU Grossman School of Medicine in the US, led the study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia.   He said results suggest “a healthy diet in middle -age, may benefit the brain as well as the heart”.

He added “Reducing salt, sugar and fat to reduce blood pressure could also help to ward off Alzheimer’s Disease”.

West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust is encouraging us to help ourselves stay well.    They are working with Abbeycroft Leisure to provide services such as the Active Living and Active Mums programmes.   The Active Living programme, available via a referral from your GP or clinician, helps those living with long-term conditions increase their overall health through exercise on a 12 to 24 week programme.   This is open to a wide range of patients, such as those with anxiety, arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, or high blood pressure.

The Active Mums programme helps give pregnant women the opportunity to take part in exercise classes, receive advice about how to have a healthier pregnancy, alongside support to help them improve their mental wellbeing, and where application, stop smoking.

They advise that it is also very important for all members of our communities, who are eligible for the Covid-19 and flu vaccinations, to come forward so you can help protect yourself and your loved ones.