Brain Myth, #4

Myth #4: Sound Body, Sound Mind.

Some people think that a sick body will decrease a person's mental abilities; however, in many cases, illness does not necessarily damage an aging brain.
There are some diseases that can have an adverse effect on mental health; such as, heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure; but, these physical problems have not been proven to be the cause of diminishing the mind.
Mental specialists are inclined to believe that the lifestyles of people are more likely to be the cause of both physical and mental weaknesses.
Overeating, physical and mental inactivity, and stresses show up as predictors for the deterioration of both mind and body.
Regular exercise is a physical factor that seems to be one of the most beneficial for both the brainpower of the healthy and the sick, and for both the young and elderly people.
All exercises are not of equal value, because those who who participate in moderate exercise; such as, thirty minutes of walking a day score higher on tests than those who never exercise.
Older people who spend hours a day running or swimming can risk a decrease in physical and mental conditions.

-Compiled from excerpts presented in "Brain Power"
by Joannie M. Schrof in U.S. News & World Report;
November 28, 1994; pages 92 & 94.