What’s good for your heart is good for your brain. The same risk factors for heart disease—like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol—also increase your risk for Alzheimer’s. 

Why Heart Health Impacts the Brain 

The brain depends on a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood. When blood vessels are healthy, they deliver that oxygen efficiently which supports memory, focus, and overall cognition. But when arteries become stiff or clogged, blood flow slows down, raising the risk of small strokes and long-term damage. Protecting your heart is one of the most powerful ways we can protect the brain against dementia. 

5 Steps for a Healthier Heart and Brain

Small, consistent habits add up to long-term brain protection.  Together, these actions not only extend life but also preserve its quality. 

1. Diet-a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins helps keep cholesterol and sugar levels in check.  

2. Regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes per week. This strengthens the heart and improves circulation to the brain.  

3. Blood pressure: Know your numbers. A healthy goal is generally below 120/80. Even mild elevations increase stroke and dementia risk over time.   

4. Blood sugar: Keep blood sugar in the normal range to protect blood vessels in both the heart and brain. Fasting glucose under 100 mg/dL or an A1c under 5.7% is considered healthy. Limiting sugary drinks, refined carbs, and oversized portions while staying active are simple ways to help maintain control. 

5. Smoking: Quitting smoking is one of the single most effective steps for lowering both heart disease and dementia risk.  

Screening Is Prevention

Midlife is when the groundwork for brain health is truly laid. Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and sleep apnea often develop silently in our 40s and 50s. Left unchecked, these problems can slowly damage blood vessels in the brain long before memory changes show up. 

By staying on top of screenings like blood pressure checks, cholesterol panels, blood sugar tests, and preventive exams we can identify risks early and act on them. Treating high blood pressure in midlife, for example, can cut dementia risk by as much as a third. The same goes for bringing blood sugar and cholesterol under control. 

The message is simple: screening is not just about finding disease, it’s about prevention. The earlier we act, the greater our ability to protect brain health for the decades ahead. 

How You Can Join Us 

Every step counts — whether you walk beside us, volunteer to help, or donate to the cause. Together, we can bring hope and help to those who need it most.  

To Donate, or Walk with us on September 21st Visit—  [https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=18581&pg=personal&px=14290003] 

 From our Geriatrican:

"As a Geriatrician, I see firsthand the profound impact Alzheimer’s disease has on patients and families every day. On a personal level, it has been heart-wrenching to witness my father-in-law grapple with this disease, and the toll it takes on those around him. This walk is an opportunity not only to raise critical funds for research and support, but also to come together as a community to show hope and strength for those living with Alzheimer’s." - Dr. Poonam Merai