We keep hearing about how life expectancy has increased, and today’s
retirees are living longer than ever. However, longevity behooves that we (1)
take measures to retain good health and mental acumen as we get older and (2)
develop a long-term financial strategy to provide for ourselves and our loved
ones in retirement.
We can help you with the latter, and here are some new studies that may
help you with the former.
Recent research has found that the brain can actually grow new nerve
cells through a process called neurogenesis. The hippocampus section of the
brain — which is responsible for learning, memory, mood and emotion — generates
up to 700 new neurons per day. In fact, scientists have discovered a clear link
that patients given anti-depressants generate a higher level of new neurons,
which are directly responsible for improving mood.
While neuron production tends to decrease as we age, there are factors
we can control to help increase production: learning, physical activity and
specific factors related to diet, such as restricted caloric intake,
intermittent fasting, consuming flavonoids (found in blueberries and dark
chocolate) and omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon). Soft foods (as opposed to
crunchy foods) also have been found to promote neurogenesis.
[CLICK HERE to
view the Ted Talk, “You Can Grow New Brain Cells. Here’s How,” from BCG
Perspectives, October 2015.]
Other studies have demonstrated positive brain changes associated with
higher levels of daily physical activity and fitness. In addition to keeping
muscles and joints fit, exercise also improves oxygen circulation and the nerve
processes that improve memory and brain functions as people age.
Scientists say it doesn’t take much; simply that we continue to be
active throughout the day. For example, get up and move around every hour that
you’re awake.
[CLICK HERE to
read the article, “Getting closer to understanding how exercise keeps brains
young,” from Harvard Health Publications, Sept. 4, 2015.]
Another phenomenon that impedes brain functionality is sleep
deprivation, which is common among adults at every age. A sleep-deprived brain
thinks slower, reacts slower and is prone to poorer decision making.
Furthermore, lack of sleep can impact mood, and people who consistently lose
sleep are more likely to experience depression.
[CLICK
HERE to read the
article, “Sleep and Melatonin,” from National Sleep Foundation, 2015.]
[CLICK
HERE to read the
article, “Sleep and Sound,” from National Sleep Foundation, 2015.]
[CLICK HERE to
read the article, “Have Insomnia? Researchers Identify Brain Circuit
Responsible for Wakefulness, Sleep,” from MedicalDaily.com, Dec. 26, 2015.]
Finally, you can help optimize your brainpower by cutting down on
refined sugar consumption. While it’s well known sweets aren’t good for our
waistlines, they can also be detrimental to mental sharpness and the ability to
get a good night’s sleep.
Let’s face it: If we’re going to live a long time, we want to maintain a
high quality of life. The decisions you make regarding health and nutrition are
in your hands, but if you ever have questions about keeping your finances in
good shape, feel free to give us a call.
[CLICK HERE to
read the article, “How Giving up Refined Sugar Changed My Brain,” from Fast
Company, Sept. 1, 2015.]
We are an independent firm helping individuals create retirement
strategies using a variety of insurance products to custom suit their needs and
objectives.
The information contained in this material is provided by third
parties and has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but
accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed.
If you are unable to access any of the news articles and sources
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