New study: Climate change affects brain health

Climate change not only affects the condition of the earth, but also human health. A recent study concluded that the increase in environmental temperature worsens the health of the brain and nerves or neurological. Hospitalization for patients is getting higher. The same applies to the number of deaths around the world. According to the UN's official website, un.org, climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns. This shift may be natural, such as through variations in the solar cycle. But since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change, mainly due to the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas. Burning fossil fuels produces greenhouse gas emissions that act like a blanket covering the Earth, trapping the sun's heat. and raising temperatures. Examples of greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change include carbon dioxide and methane. This comes from using gasoline to drive cars or coal to heat buildings, for example. Clearing land and forests can also release carbon dioxide. Landfills are a major source of methane emissions. Energy, industry, transportation, buildings, agriculture, and land use are among the main emitters. In this study, researchers analyzed past research related to climate change. Researchers also looked at neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disease parkinsonism, migraine, epilepsy, to stroke. As a result, higher ambient temperature is associated with worse neurological conditions. People with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and non-Alzheimer's dementia are also more irritable, anxious, depressed, and agitated due to climate change. Likewise, increased environmental temperature is associated with decreased cognitive performance and motor function in people with multiple sclerosis. An increase in temperature also increases the risk of hospitalization and death in people with dementia and stroke. Climate change, which includes rising sea levels, drought, air pollution, and loss of biodiversity, can also affect the occurrence of neurological disorders. However, the researchers stated that this study has a number of limitations. This study was conducted in high-income countries so that the impact of climate change may be different in low-income countries. To prevent neurological disorders, everyone is advised to always adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating high-nutrient foods, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. There are several things you can do to help slow memory decline and lower your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. Here are five recommended things to keep your brain healthy.

1. Exercise regularly.

Exercise several times per week for 30-60 minutes. You can walk, swim, play tennis, or any other moderate aerobic activity that increases your heart rate.

2. Get enough sleep.

Sleep plays an important role in your brain health. There are several theories that sleep helps clear abnormal proteins in your brain and consolidate memories, which improves your memory and overall brain health.

3. Eat Mediterranean food.

Your diet plays a big role in your brain health. Studies show people who follow the Mediterranean diet are less likely to have Alzheimer's disease than people who don't follow the diet.

4. Stay mentally active.

Your brain is like a muscle — you need to use it or you'll lose it.There are many things you can do to keep your brain in shape, such as doing crosswords or Sudoku, reading, playing cards or putting together a jigsaw puzzle. Think of it as training your brain.

5. Stay socially engaged.

Social interactions help ward off depression and stress, both of which can contribute to memory loss. Look for opportunities to connect with loved ones, friends, and others, especially if you live alone.

There are studies linking solitary confinement to brain atrophy, so staying socially active may have the opposite effect and strengthen your brain health.

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