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Physical activity, the brain, and a possible link to better heart health

Physical activity lowers cardiovascular disease risk in part by reducing stress-related activity in the brain, according to a 2024 study.

Can your blood tests predict your future risk of stress, anxiety, or depression?

A 2024 study found that people with high blood sugar and high triglycerides are more likely to develop chronic stress, anxiety, or depression later in life, compared with people who have low or normal blood sugar levels.

Ultra-processed foods? Just say no

It's well known that ultra-processed foods are unhealthy. But what if you follow a healthy diet yet also eat some ultra-processed foods? A new study found that this still poses a risk for brain health.

Life can be challenging: Build your own resilience plan

Resilience is a psychological response that helps you adapt to life's difficulties and seek a path forward through challenges. While everyone has the ability to be resilient, life stresses can take a toll on you. It's possible to cultivate resilience - but how?

What is cognitive behavioral therapy?

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches people to challenge negative thought patterns and change their responses to unsettling situations. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as issues like pain or insomnia, and for managing difficult life experiences.

Turning resolutions into reinvention

The vast majority of New Year's resolutions are forgotten by February. But people don't have to tie their personal improvement to a calendar date. Reinvention can begin at any time, making any day a fresh opportunity to stretch toward a long-wanted goal. People should break down their one-year goal into a process to accomplish it. Helpful strategies include writing goals down; breaking them into steps; tracking progress; being accountable; and tying progress to an event.

Polycystic ovary syndrome linked with cognitive decline at midlife

A 2024 study suggests that women with polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition stemming from a hormonal imbalance, may face higher risks of cognitive decline at midlife.

Mediterranean diet may help ease depression

A 2024 research review suggests that consuming a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant foods and healthy fats, may reduce depression symptoms in people with depression.

Blood test shows promise as simple test for Alzheimer's disease

A 2023 study suggests a blood test that looks for a specific biomarker may help identify people with Alzheimer's disease who may benefit from anti-amyloid therapy long before the disease is evident.

Can you become a "super-ager"?

Super-agers are individuals known to maintain peak mental prowess well into their 90s and avoid dementia and Alzheimer's disease. While genetics play a big part in super-agers' cognitive health, adopting healthy lifestyle habits also contributes, and other people might be able to improve their brain health in the same way. These habits include exercising regularly, following a plant-based diet, being social, adopting mentally challenging activities, and getting adequate sleep.

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