We hear a lot about the importance of maintaining heart health to prevent all kinds of disease, including heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure. Increasingly, researchers are recognizing the powerful connection between heart health and brain health. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the same factors that predict cardiovascular disease risk (such as age, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and smoking history) can also predict risk for developing dementia. It makes sense – like all our organs, the brain depends on the oxygen and energy that only a healthy, strong, cardiovascular system can deliver. 

So, what are some things we can do to protect our hearts and brains? One important and easy step is to have an annual checkup with your doctor. Some heart disease, such as high blood pressure, has no obvious symptoms, so without checking you might not know you are at risk. Other numbers that are important to check yearly are cholesterol levels and blood sugar. These are all “silent” risk factors – typically you aren’t aware of the issue until it causes health problems. Your annual exam is also an opportunity to review any medications you currently take and talk with your doctor about any other health concerns you have.  

On a daily basis, we all know the drill, right? Eat right, get enough sleep, limit alcohol and tobacco (if you use them at all) and incorporate some kind of physical activity into your daily routine. But equally important – be kind to yourself. Just like heart disease can lead to brain problems, prolonged mental stress can cause or exacerbate heart problems. If you are struggling with grief, depression or anxiety, it’s ok to ask for help. Because it’s not just in your mind – it’s in your heart. 

To determine your personal risk for cardiovascular disease, go to Framingham Risk Score Calculator for Coronary Heart Disease. To schedule an annual wellness exam at the Southern Ute Health Center, call 970-563-4581