Brain health is closely related to the condition of the entire body. Therefore, it is important to take care of it long before problems with memory or concentration arise. ## Blood Pressure As we age, arteries gradually become stiffer and lose elasticity, which can lead to increased blood pressure. According to D'Amico, hypertension remains one of the most underestimated threats to the brain. High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke and can negatively affect cognitive health over time. At the same time, a person may not notice any alarming symptoms for a long time. Therefore, after the age of 40, it is especially important to regularly measure blood pressure and discuss its readings with a doctor if necessary. ## Cholesterol Another important indicator is cholesterol levels. Elevated cholesterol can negatively impact the condition of blood vessels, especially if a person also has hypertension. Arteries supply blood not only to the heart but also to the brain. Therefore, anything that helps maintain blood vessels in good condition also works to preserve cognitive functions. Cholesterol levels can be checked through a blood test. Diet, physical activity, and, if necessary, prescribed medications help control it. ## Blood Sugar It is also necessary to monitor glucose levels. Disorders of carbohydrate metabolism and type 2 diabetes are associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment. Regular tests allow for timely detection of changes and understanding whether additional attention to metabolic health is required. ## Physical Activity D'Amico considers movement to be one of the most important factors in maintaining brain health. Physical activity improves blood circulation and helps maintain normal cardiovascular function. A common guideline for adults is to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. ## Strength Training One should not limit themselves to walking and cardio workouts. Strength exercises help maintain muscle mass, which gradually decreases with age. During muscle work, biologically active substances, including myokines, are released. They are involved in various processes in the body, including those related to the nervous system. Therefore, it is wise to combine aerobic exercise with strength training. ## Quality Sleep Sleep is necessary for the brain to recover. Lack of sleep can impair attention, memory, reaction speed, and mood as early as the next day. If sleep deprivation becomes chronic, the consequences can be significantly more serious. Therefore, the duration and quality of sleep after 40 should be viewed as one of the important indicators of health, rather than something that can be constantly sacrificed for work or household chores. ## Mental Health Depression should not be considered an inevitable companion of aging. Emotional state is directly linked to quality of life and cognitive health. If feelings of sadness, anxiety, apathy, or loss of interest in usual activities persist for a long time, it is a reason to seek professional help. ## New Activities and Learning The brain needs new challenges. Learning a foreign language, mastering a musical instrument, engaging in crafts, or any other unfamiliar activity forces a person to learn and train cognitive skills. Moreover, it is important not just to mechanically repeat familiar actions, but to regularly set new tasks for oneself. ## Communication Social connections also matter for brain health. Regular communication, meetings with loved ones, friends, and participation in joint activities help maintain emotional and cognitive well-being. Social isolation, on the contrary, is associated with increased risks to physical and mental health. Thus, taking care of the brain after 40 is not just one special examination or a "magic" exercise. Measurable indicators and daily habits come to the forefront: blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, movement, strength training, quality sleep, mental health, intellectual activity, and communication. And the sooner these things become part of everyday life, the greater the chances of maintaining mental clarity and good memory for many years.
