How Fitness Protects Aging Brains

Story at-a-glance

• A new study finds physical exercise, more than mental exercise, protects your brain against age-related changes; people who engaged in the most physical exercise showed the least brain shrinkage
• Exercise, diet, and stress management are three primary factors that play key roles in maintaining sharp mental function as you age
• Exercise promotes brain cell regeneration and production of key brain chemicals and growth factors such as BDNF, which is important in maintaining memory, skilled task performance, and overall cognitive function
• Your dietary choices are another important factor in brain health; your brain is comprised mostly of fat so requires abundant dietary fats in order to repair and regenerate; one of the most potent and bioavailable sources of animal-based omega-3 fat for your brain is krill oil
• Some of the best brain foods are fresh vegetables, berries, organic eggs from pastured hens, raw milk and meat products from pastured animals, nuts, avocados, coconut oil and olive oil

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