Brain Health Tips

Recovering Brain Health After a Stroke

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

The incredible ability to adapt and recover after a stroke shows how resilient the brain is to injury. Neuroplasticity, or the brain's ability to create new connections and reorganize itself, plays a crucial role in recovering from a stroke. Some people experience extraordinary gains, especially during the first few months after a stroke when the brain may be especially responsive to therapy. But it is important to note that recovery can continue over time and may be helped by targeted rehabilitation, repeated practice, movement, healthy sleep, stress management, social connection, and overall brain-healthy habits. These are the same behaviors that help maintain brain health in individuals who have not had a stroke.

The acronym ‘BE FAST’ can help you recognize the signs of a stroke in yourself or a loved one:

  • Balance (loss of coordination)
  • Eyes (changes in vision)
  • Face (drooping features on one side)
  • Arms (weakness in a limb)
  • Speech (difficulty speaking)
  • Time (call 911 immediately)

To learn more, visit this link. For a more technical article on therapies after a stroke, visit this link.

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Are Dementia Rates Really Dropping?

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

This month, we wanted to share an Economist article highlighting a hopeful shift in the fight against dementia. While dementia remains a major global health challenge, recent research indicates declining new diagnoses among older adults in some countries. This is likely due to better education, improvements in cardiovascular health, and reduced smoking. At the same time, advances in earlier detection, blood-based biomarkers, and new treatments are changing how dementia may be identified and managed. As NC Registry for Brain Health participants, the key message is that adopting healthy daily habits can help reduce your risk of dementia as you age. Staying physically active, managing blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol, remaining socially and mentally engaged, treating hearing or vision problems, eating well, and participating in research can all support healthier aging and get us closer to better prevention.

To listen to the full article, visit this link.

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No Age Limits to Improved Brain Health

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new study shares some uplifting news: it is never too late to boost your brain health. A three-year study of 4,000 adults found that simple brain health activities can improve thinking and memory skills even into their 80s. Participants who stayed mentally active, socially connected, and emotionally supported experienced sharper thinking and a stronger sense of purpose. These findings remind us that consistent, small actions make a difference throughout life.

To learn more about the brain health index, visit this link.

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Summer 2026 Newsletter

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

The summer edition of the NC Registry for Brain Health newsletter highlights ways to keep your brain active and engaged all season through research opportunities, community events, and daily habits.

We're also celebrating our ninth anniversary and your contributions to the NC Registry for Brain Health. Thank you for being part of our community and for everything we have accomplished together!

Click here to view the full newsletter and join us on Facebook.

Spring 2026 Newsletter

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Learn how to support your brain in the spring edition of the NC Brain Health newsletter. This issue highlights helpful brain health tips, research opportunities, and upcoming community events happening across North Carolina.

Thank you for being part of our community. Your support helps advance brain health research and education throughout the state.

Click here to view the full newsletter and join us on Facebook.

Healthy Eating Promotes Brain Health

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans, and healthy fats is connected to better brain health. This way of eating can be especially helpful for communities of color, who often experience higher rates of heart and vascular health conditions that can impact the brain. Because this diet can be adapted to many cultural traditions, it offers a flexible and practical way to support both heart and brain health across the lifespan.  

To learn more about the Mediterranean-style diet and its effects on your health, visit the American Heart Association’s website. You can also visit this link to learn more about foods you can eat more regularly to promote brain health. You can take a deeper dive into how diet affects brain health by visiting the American Heart Association’s website. They also have resources to guide you on your healthy eating journey at this link. For healthy recipe ideas, visit this link. 

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A Vaccine for Your Brain: Surprising Benefits of the Shingles Shot

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new study offers encouraging news about both brain and immune health. The shingles vaccine, which is already recommended for adults age 50+ to prevent a painful viral infection, may also help lower dementia risk and even slow its progression. Researchers analyzing health data from more than 280,000 older adults in Wales and Australia found that people who received the shingles vaccine were less likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Researchers found that, among those already living with dementia, vaccinated individuals had a significantly lower risk of dying over nine years. Scientists believe the vaccine may reduce harmful inflammation in the nervous system or strengthen the immune system, though more research is needed to understand why these benefits occur. While not a guaranteed preventive measure, experts agree that discussing the shingles vaccine with your doctor is a simple, accessible step that may support healthier aging and brain health.

To read more, visit this link.

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The Connection Between Oral Health and the Brain

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new study suggests that adults with gum disease may be more likely to show signs of damage in their brain's white matter, changes linked to memory problems, slower thinking, balance issues, and higher stroke risk. Researchers found that those with gum disease had more white matter hyperintensities on brain scans, even after accounting for age, blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. While the study does not prove that gum disease causes brain changes, it strengthens growing evidence that oral health and brain health may be connected. Experts note that gum disease can be prevented and treated, and maintaining good dental hygiene is an important step in supporting long-term brain health. 

To learn more, visit this link.

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Winter 2025 Newsletter

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

The winter’s edition of the NC Registry for Brain Health newsletter highlights a year of significant progress in Alzheimer’s disease research and healthy aging. In this issue, you’ll find:

  • Highlights of scientific breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s disease, including the FDA’s approval of the first simple blood test for Alzheimer’s biomarkers
  • Practical guidance on preventing falls and an overview of new technologies that help older adults stay safer and more active, even during colder months!
  • Tips for caregivers navigating a stressful holiday season, plus links to healthy recipes
  • Upcoming community events

Thank you for your valuable partnership and ongoing support of brain health research. Your involvement makes a difference and helps move this important work forward.

Click here to view the full newsletter and join us on Facebook.

 

Junk Food and the Brain: A Recipe for Memory Loss

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A recent study by researchers at UNC Health shows that eating too much processed and high-fat "junk food" impacts your brain health. Researchers studied mice on a high-fat diet of fast foods, chips, and sugary snacks. In only four days, they noticed the mice were experiencing faster cognitive decline and memory issues.

The good news is that choosing healthier foods—such as vibrant fruits, crunchy vegetables, lean proteins, and hearty whole grains—can help protect your brain.

To learn more, visit this link.

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