Easy Daily Choices for Brain and Heart Health

Everyone wants to be healthy, but sometimes it can be a struggle. People often think of health in terms of physical appearance and fitness. Other factors are often not considered until after a diagnosis is given by a doctor. Rather than waiting until something goes wrong, it is better to be proactive about health when it comes to the small choices we make each day.

Take Care of Your Brain

When people think about staying healthy, the brain can often be the last thing on their minds. Why is that? Brain health and cognitive function are imperative for the body’s long-term health as well as daily function.

If you haven’t been thinking about your brain, now is a good time to start. Take memory loss supplements to support healthy brain function and prevent cognitive decline. Avoid eating processed food and snacks which are typically high in sugar and extremely low in nutritional content.

Avoid Sugary Beverages

Skip the soft drinks, those empty calories do not feed your body or your brain. Drink plenty of water instead, your brain needs it! People often get headaches as a result of dehydration. Staying hydrated with water helps improve memory and cognitive agility.

Sugary beverages are also strongly correlated with heart disease. Most people are aware that soft drinks are unhealthy and full of sugar. What a lot of people are unaware of is that fruit juices are often just as bad. Most people believe fruit juices are a healthy option, but they actually contain just as much sugar (sometimes more) than soft drinks, with fractional amounts of vitamins and nutrients.

Eat Heart-Healthy Foods

• Fish – Fatty fish that are rich in omega-3 like salmon are a good option. People often think fatty foods are unhealthy, but studies show a link between healthy fats and a lower risk of heart disease. Just stay away from those trans fats found in processed and fried foods.
• Olive Oil – Extra virgin olive oil is filled with antioxidants and monounsaturated fats. Studies show it can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Plus, it tastes great on just about anything! Drizzle it on your salad or use it to dip you dip your dinner roll, Italian style.
• Eggs – Eggs are good for the heart, despite the old myth that says otherwise. For years, people have believed that eggs (particularly the yolk) caused high cholesterol. In fact, most of the nutrients of the egg are contained in the yolk.
• Fruits and Vegetables – Fruits and vegetables are associated with a low risk of heart disease. They are packed with vitamins and minerals. Vegetables are often rich in fiber. Certain fruits like blueberries contain antioxidants. There is a correlation between people eating fruit and vegetables and living a longer lifespan.

Making healthy choices does not need to be overwhelming, just start somewhere. Make a couple of these healthy choices each day and when you get comfortable with those, add a few more in. Your body will thank you.