Rest Assured

Adequate sleep is proving to be one of the key ways in which to lower the risk of dementia, writes Paula Goodyer.

- Paula Goodyer

FIVE WAYS EXERCISE PROTECTS THE BRAIN

-Stimulates production of BDNF, a ‘brain fertilizer’ that helps maintain brain cells and grow new ones.

-Increases blood flow to the brain.

-Reduces the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, which can increase the risk of dementia.

-Helps maintain brain volume – being fit in midlife is linked to higher brain volume 20 years later.

-Improves overall mood and sleep.

Those who are unafraid of exercise and already eating a Mediterranean style diet are on the way to preventing dementia. But there’s another important habit that can help preserve a healthy brain: getting enough sleep.