A team of researchers from Beijing Anzhen Hospital and other institutions recently conducted a study that sheds light on the connection between blood pressure control and brain health. They discovered that the longer a person’s blood pressure stays under control, the lower their risk of developing dementia.
Dementia is a condition that affects memory, thinking, and daily functioning, making everyday tasks challenging. This research emphasizes the importance of keeping blood pressure, especially the upper (systolic) number, consistently in a healthy range for both heart and brain health.
High blood pressure is a widespread issue. Almost half of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure, yet only about one in five manage to keep it under control.
Fortunately, maintaining healthy blood pressure is possible through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and, if necessary, medication. Previous research has shown that uncontrolled high blood pressure can increase the chances of dementia and other types of cognitive decline.
However, blood pressure can vary throughout the day and over time, which can make it tricky to determine if someone’s blood pressure is truly under control.
In this study, researchers focused on how the length of time blood pressure remains in a healthy range relates to the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. They analyzed data from the SPRINT study, which investigated different blood pressure treatments in people with hypertension.
The findings revealed that people whose systolic blood pressure stayed within the target range for longer periods were less likely to develop dementia.
For every 31.5% increase in the time that blood pressure remained controlled, there was a 16% reduction in the risk of probable dementia. This suggests that the duration of blood pressure control plays a crucial role in protecting brain health.
The results of this study suggest that healthcare providers can use the time blood pressure remains in a target range as a way to identify individuals at higher risk for dementia.
By helping people manage their blood pressure effectively, doctors can support both heart and brain health, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline over time. However, controlling blood pressure is just one piece of the puzzle for maintaining good brain health.
There are many lifestyle habits that can help lower the risk of dementia:
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain and can lower the risk of dementia. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats are beneficial for brain health.
- Stay Socially Active: Social engagement can keep the brain active and may help reduce dementia risk.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can raise the risk of dementia. Regular check-ups, appropriate medication, and lifestyle changes are key to managing these.
- Challenge Your Brain: Mental stimulation, like reading, puzzles, or learning new skills, keeps the brain engaged and may help lower dementia risk.
- Get Enough Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for brain health. Aim for 7-8 hours each night.
By adopting these practices, individuals can help reduce their risk of dementia and support long-term brain health.
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, taking steps to control blood pressure and lead a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preserving mental clarity and overall well-being.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies that black licorice could cause dangerous high blood pressure, and this common plant nutrient could help reduce high blood pressure.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about how coffee influence your risk of high blood pressure, and results showing this olive oil could reduce blood pressure in healthy people.
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