Your heart health plays a major role in how well your brain functions, both now and as you age. Many people think of the heart and the brain as two separate systems, but in reality, they work as a team every moment of the day.
From memory and focus to long-term cognitive health, a strong heart helps support a strong brain. At Kenneth K. Wogensen, MD, we often show patients how cardiovascular health affects the nervous system. Knowing about this connection helps protect your brain for years to come.
Your brain makes up only about 2% of your body weight but uses roughly 20% of your body’s oxygen supply, so it depends on a steady flow of oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood. The heart’s job is to pump blood efficiently so the brain gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly.
When the heart struggles to pump as well as it should, blood flow to the brain may decrease. Over time, reduced circulation can affect thinking speed, memory, and attention. Healthy blood vessels also matter, as stiff or narrowed arteries can limit the blood supply to delicate brain tissue.
Cholesterol levels influence both heart and brain health. When cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it forms plaque that narrows blood vessels. This process, known as atherosclerosis, reduces blood flow throughout the body, including to the brain.
Restricted blood flow raises the risk of stroke and can slowly affect memory and problem-solving skills. Managing cholesterol through diet, activity, and medical care supports smoother circulation and better brain function.
High blood pressure (hypertension) can damage blood vessels over time. In the brain, this damage increases the risk of small vessel disease, stroke, and cognitive decline.
Low blood pressure can also cause problems. If pressure drops too much, the brain may not receive enough blood, leading to dizziness, confusion, or syncope (fainting). Keeping blood pressure in a healthy range helps protect brain cells and supports clear thinking.
Stroke is one of the clearest examples of the heart-brain connection. Many strokes occur when blood flow to part of the brain becomes blocked or reduced. Heart problems like arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) can increase the risk of blood clots that travel to the brain.
Even small strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) may cause subtle changes in thinking, balance, or mood. Protecting heart health lowers stroke risk and helps preserve brain abilities.
Heart disease and brain disorders often share the same risk factors. These include:
When these factors remain uncontrolled, they place stress on both the heart and the brain. The good news is that improving one often helps the other.
Daily habits have a strong impact on heart and brain health. Small, consistent choices can make a meaningful difference. For example, regular physical activity strengthens the heart and improves blood flow to the brain. Exercise also supports mood, sleep, and memory.
A balanced diet containing plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports blood vessel health. Limiting processed foods, excess sugar, and saturated fats helps reduce inflammation and plaque build-up.
Quality sleep allows the brain to clear waste products and reset for the next day. Poor sleep can raise blood pressure, strain the heart, and affect memory and focus.
Managing stress is equally important. Chronic stress raises heart rate and blood pressure, which can affect circulation to the brain. Relaxation techniques, social connection, and mindfulness can support both emotional and physical health.
Our board-certified neurologist, Dr. Wogensen, doesn’t look at the brain in isolation. Symptoms such as memory loss, dizziness, headaches, or balance problems may be related to circulation or cardiovascular issues. Evaluating heart health can help explain neurological symptoms and guide effective treatment plans.
Preventive care also matters. Monitoring risk factors early allows patients to take action before serious problems develop. Your heart and brain depend on each other every second of the day, so by caring for your cardiovascular health, you also invest in your ability to think clearly, remember well, and stay independent as you age.
If you have concerns about memory, concentration, or neurological symptoms, a comprehensive evaluation can help identify contributing factors. Call Kenneth K. Wogensen, MD, to schedule a consultation, or get in touch via the online inquiry form.
