Scientists at Yale University and the McCance Center for Brain Health at Massachusetts General Hospital found that following 12 habits helps protect against stroke, dementia and depression. Research results publishedIt appears in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry.
Scientists analysed the lifestyle and health characteristics of 350 volunteers provided by the British Biobank (the largest repository of human biological samples). They found that 12 factors reduced the risk of stroke, dementia and depression.
Four of these were related to physical health indicators (maintaining normal blood pressure and body weight, as well as optimal blood sugar and cholesterol levels). The other five were elements of a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. The scientists identified the last group of factors as emotional and social; they are associated with good brain health, low stress levels, having a purpose in life, and meeting the need for communication.
The tool, which assesses brain health based on these 12 factors, is called the Brain Care Score. Gaining an additional five points on the Brain Care Score over a 13-year follow-up was associated with a 33% lower risk of depression in old age and a 27% lower risk of stroke, depression and dementia, the researchers said.
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Source: Gazeta
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