Heart Health Can Really Go to Your Head

You primary care provider takes your blood pressure, tests your blood sugar and tells you to get some exercise. But did you know that these steps to improve your heart health could also reduce your risk of dementia?

Researchers tracked more than 6,000 people age 65 or older on “Life’s Simple 7®,” American Heart Association recommendations for better health, and found a lower rate of dementia in participants who practice these heart healthy habits:

• Manage blood pressure
• Control cholesterol
• Reduce blood sugar
• Get active
• Eat better
• Stop smoking
• Lose weight

The study rated participants as poor, fair or optimal on each of the seven metrics. After eight years, 11% had developed dementia. But they found a lower rate – less than 8% — in those who scored “optimal” on at least five of the heart-healthy metrics. And for each additional optimal metric, the risk of dementia dropped by 10%. In contrast, participants with zero metrics scored as optimal experienced a more rapid mental decline than the heart-healthy participants.

Combining these optimal heart health metrics can reduce your risk for dementia. You don’t have to be perfect, but each time you improve a factor you reduce your risk, according to Dr. Cecilia Samieri, lead author of the study.

How do you get started? See your primary care provider at least once a year to track the Simple 7 and get help to progress to give yourself the best shot at optimal health – for your heart and mind.

Study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 8/21/18.