Our brains are very clever, they are able to relearn tasks and repair damage, this is due to our neurological reserve. However as we get older this reserve changes, having MS also speeds up the loss of the brain reserve. So what can be done to keep that reserve topped up?
Live a brain healthy lifestyle.
- Keep as active as you can, regular aerobic activity helps with brain speed, see our exercise section on the Hub for more advice and talks.
- Keep your weight under control, evidence show us that if you are overweight and obese, then you have more lesions. See our section on diet on the Hub.
- Keep your mind active, this helps with any memory changes. Keeping at work or engaging with hobbies doing puzzles or crosswords can be useful.
- Avoid smoking, smoking leads to an increase in lesions and an increase in disabling symptoms.
- Watch how much you drink, there is evidence of it reduces length of life.
- Continue to take prescribed medications, for blood pressure, heart disease or high levels of cholesterol.
There is a consensus paper and group that are advocating a brain healthy lifestyle for people with MS around the world. Their vision is to create a better future for people with MS and their families.
Please see the link below to their webpages:
https://www.msbrainhealth.org/
Here is also a guide specifically for people with MS:
https://www.msbrainhealth.org/people-with-ms/brain-health-a-guide-for-people-with-ms/
Below is an you tube video about brain health and their campaign:
Please ask you MS team for more information.