Brain health Archive

A 2024 study suggests that cognitive changes are a more reliable signal than either age or biological signs of Alzheimer's disease to foreshadow an older adult's decision to stop driving.

The combination of drinking alcohol and sleeping while on a plane puts a big strain on the body, especially the cardiovascular system. This is because blood oxygen normally drops slightly when flying high above sea level, sleeping, or consuming alcohol. The more contributors to low blood oxygen there are, the harder the body has to work to compensate by breathing faster and increasing heart rate. There's even more strain if someone has heart or lung disease, which places the person at a higher risk for a heart attack or stroke.

A 2024 analysis found that many people without heart problems are taking daily low-dose aspirin therapy, even though it might have more health risks than benefits. Some of them have not consulted with a doctor about whether daily aspirin is safe for them.

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a condition characterized by lightheadedness or dizziness when standing and a racing heart. The underlying cause is not known, although it sometimes follows bedrest after injury or illness. Recently, POTS has been diagnosed in some people who have had COVID-19.

Being a night owl might increase the risk of developing many health problems, so it might be worth it for night owls to go to sleep a little earlier. The sleep schedule must be shifted slowly to make a lasting change. Tips to do that include setting a bedtime goal between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m.; going to sleep 20 minutes earlier every five days, until the bedtime goal is reached; possibly using certain sleep aids until the bedtime goal is reached; and setting a consistent wake time no later than 9 a.m.

A 2024 Harvard study of more than 92,000 healthy men and women (average age 56) found that consuming about half a tablespoon of olive oil per day was associated with a 28% reduction in the risk for dementia-related death, regardless of diet quality.

A 2024 report from the CDC found that stroke rates are rising in middle-aged and even young adults. Scientists say the increase might be due to rising rates of obesity, high blood pressure, and opioid use. Stroke rates in people 65 or older have remained the same.

Circulation problems affect how well arteries and veins function. . Artery problems are marked by diminished oxygen and nutrient rich blood flow to the brain and all other body parts. Related conditions include heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Vein problems often arise when valves in the vessels weaken, allowing blood and fluids to pool. That can cause varicose veins, discolored skin on hands or feet, and swollen legs, ankles, or feet.

People who followed a balanced diet consisting of a good mix of healthy foods like lean meats, vegetables, fruit, and dairy, with occasional processed foods had the highest scores of cognitive function compared with other eating patterns, according to a 2024 study.

Vacation activities are often healthier than everyday habits. Since heart disease and cancer are linked to lifestyle choices people can change, such as poor diet and inactivity, maintaining habits fostered on vacation can improve overall health. These habits include spending more time outdoors, moving more, spending less time online, eating a more varied diet, dining more with others, getting more sleep, and engaging their brain in novel ways.