Despite the obvious differences between men and women, we’re only beginning to learn how the sexes differ in terms of health and disease. Until recently, most medical research focused on men and often didn’t consider gender differences. We’re learning more every year, but here are four important things that you and the women in your life need to know right now.
1. Your brain
The good news for women is that they live, on average, five years longer than men. The bad news is that with extra longevity comes increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The majority of people living with Alzheimer’s are women, and more than twice as many women die from it as men. We don’t know all the causes of the disease, but there are steps you can take to keep your brain healthy.
Exercise your mind and your body. Studies show that physical and mental activity may improve brain health. Mental exercises that draw on memory and reasoning have even been shown to reverse some of the signs of aging in the brain.
Eat fish or take a fish-oil supplement. The omega-3 fats found in fish and fish oil are linked with better brain health. Choose oily fish such as salmon, sardines, anchovies, herring, and mackerel. Chunk-light tuna is preferable to albacore or sushi, because it usually contains fewer contaminants, such as mercury.
Manage your mood. Anxiety, worry, anger, and depression have been linked with higher rates of cognitive impairment. If you’re feeling stressed or down, don’t ignore the problem. Talk with a friend or get outdoors and move your body. If that doesn’t help, talk with your doctor or a trained counselor.