Which is it: BRAINS or HEART

October 5, 2023

Let’s dive into a conversation about which is more important – Brains or Heart?

I had to ask my doctor, being risk to both Alzheimers and Heart Disease, “Well which one is it?”, I said. Trying to add humor to what are serious and embarrassing questions I don’t really want to talk about. I think we need to change that now. The response caught me off guard. Partially, I think, because it seems my doctors sense of humor has been amputated.

“As a doctor,” and now I was in for the ride, ” I see numerous patients every day with various health concerns. However, two vital organs that are responsible for keeping us alive are the human heart and the human brain. Both organs are equally important and work in tandem to keep us healthy and active.”

Importance of a healthy heart:

The heart is the body’s primary organ that pumps oxygenated blood to all other organs for their proper functioning. A healthy heart translates into a healthy body.
A healthy heart reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure.
A healthy heart ensures that the body’s metabolism is functioning correctly, translating to a healthy digestive system and skin.
A healthy heart enhances muscle function as it pumps nutrients and oxygen to the muscles during exercise.
A healthy heart enhances memory retention, cognitive processing, and overall brain function.
A healthy heart leads to fewer respiratory complications and ailments.
A healthy heart enhances endurance, which means less fatigue, and a more active lifestyle.
A healthy heart reduces the risk of depression and anxiety, making you feel happier and confident.
A healthy heart leads to better sleep, which translates to overall better health.
A healthy heart reduces the cost of medical care, long-term health care, and overall healthcare expenditure.

Importance of a healthy brain:

The brain is responsible for cognitive abilities, memory retention and is responsible for all motor functions.
A healthy brain ensures proper hormonal balance, metabolism, and sustains our mental health.
A healthy brain reduces the risk of cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
A healthy brain leads to better decision-making capabilities and cognitive analysis.
A healthy brain leads to better communication and coordination skills, emotional stability, and overall mental health.
A healthy brain facilitates problem-solving skills and enhances focus and attention.
A healthy brain leads to a more active and creative lifestyle.
A healthy brain enhances long-term learning and cognitive retention capabilities.
A healthy brain leads to enhanced interpersonal relationships and social connectivity.
A healthy brain reduces the risk of mental illnesses and overall healthcare expenditure.

That means both a healthy brain and a healthy heart are necessary for a healthy and active lifestyle.

“However, if you ask me which is more important, I would say that a healthy heart is more critical than a healthy brain. Why do I say that? When the heart is healthy, it pumps oxygenated blood to all parts of the body, including the brain, leading to a healthy brain. Therefore, taking care of the heart ensures a healthy brain.”

“As a doctor,” they love to say this over and over, “I highly recommend engaging in physical activities like jogging, cycling, swimming, or any other exercise of your choice for at least 35 to 40 minutes every day, which will lead to a healthier heart and a healthier lifestyle.”

So, do as I have. Join the #activedayactivelife social media campaign and make physical activity a part of your daily routine. Eat healthy, stay hydrated, and sleep well. Your heart and brain will thank you for taking care of them by taking care of you.

In conclusion, “… both a healthy heart and a healthy brain are equally important for a healthy and active lifestyle. However, by taking care of the heart, you automatically take care of the brain. Hence, a healthy heart is more critical,”

AND, I would admit more immediate and more focused towards me and my risks that may differ from the readers. The most important take away for me was committing to being active for 35 minutes every day. Let’s do it together.