**What’s New in Medical News: Improving Brain Health** Recent updates in Medical News Today highlight the importance of a multi-pronged approach to improve brain health, focusing on several key factors outlined by the American Academy of Neurology. Here are the latest insights: 1. **12 Question Brain Health Checklist:** The American Academy of Neurology has published a 12-question checklist aimed at helping individuals take proactive steps to improve their brain health and prevent cognitive decline. These factors are summarized under the acronym “SAFEST BRAINS” and include: - **Sleep** - **Affect, mood, and mental health** - **Food, diet, and supplements** - **Exercise** - **Supportive social interactions** - **Trauma avoidance** - **Blood pressure** - **Risks (metabolic and genetic factors)** - **Affordability and adherence** - **Infection** - **Negative exposures** - **Structural and social determinants of health (SSDoH)[1][2]. 2. **Expert Recommendations:** - **Consistency is Key:** Experts like Vernon Williams, MD, and Jasmin Dao, MD, PhD, emphasize the importance of consistency in protecting sleep, exercise, and mental health time. They provide practical advice on how to incorporate these habits into daily life[1]. 3. **Dietary Choices:** - **Mediterranean Diet:** Recent research suggests that the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, can improve brain health by preserving white matter integrity. This is especially notable in Hispanic/Latino adults, where adherence to a Mediterranean diet was linked to reduced inflammation and improved white matter health[3]. By incorporating these strategies, individuals can take significant steps to improve their brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. - **Sleep:** Aim for consistent, high-quality sleep, avoiding late-night weekends and early morning weekdays[1]. - **Exercise:** Engage in moderate-intensity exercise (150-180 minutes/week) and include resistance activities[1]. - **Mental Health:** Practice meditation or purposeful breathing exercises daily to manage stress and improve mood[1]. - **Diet:** Adopt a Mediterranean-style diet that emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats[3]. By following these recommendations, individuals can make meaningful improvements in their brain health.
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