My Story with Brain Health and Alzheimer's 🧠


Let's talk about Alzheimer's and Brain Health

Becoming a certified Brain Health professional has been such an exciting journey!

Being able to mix my passion for wellness AND my years of experience leading corporate wellness programs (along with high-performing executives, and entrepreneurs who are ready to prioritize their well-being to maximize performance and quality of life) was a no-brainer... pun intended! 😉

It came out of my own frustration trying to find solutions to my own pain after YEARS of neglecting my sleep for the grind, which affected my brain's health and the way I showed up as a businesswoman and the CEO of my own company.

Brain fog, lethargy (you name it), mental lags... I experienced ALL of it—and I paid a hefty price. I missed lucrative deals, opportunities, and connections, both personal and professional, because my brain and my well-being were not on point!

My mom is also a cancer survivor who's experienced 'chemo brain' (cognitive decline as a consequence of chemotherapy), which unfortunately many cancer survivors face, putting them at risk of developing early Alzheimer's and dementia.

If you've been with me for a while, you know that my KEY moment was having several conversations with her and realizing she was repeating herself over and over again, along with forgetfulness of names, and moments, among other things.

It sent me on a spiral of research (same as I did with her breast cancer diagnosis more than 10 years ago) to help slow down her cognitive decline.

This led me to get professionally trained and certified because I knew this was part of my calling. This was not random. My voice is needed.

So you see Reader... for me, this is PERSONAL.

What's Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease, a progressive brain disorder, affects millions of people worldwide. It not only impacts individuals but also their families and caregivers.

That's why I'm committed to bringing awareness not only to Alzheimer's but to Brain Health in general. By increasing awareness, we can foster support, promote early diagnosis, and advocate for research and funding to combat this debilitating condition.

Here are some myths I want to help debunk:

👵🏾 Myth #1

Myth: "Brain health decline is an inevitable part of aging."

Truth: While some cognitive changes may occur with age, severe memory loss, and cognitive decline are not normal. Many lifestyle factors can influence brain health, and adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline. According to the Alzheimer's Association, regular physical exercise, a balanced diet, mental stimulation, quality sleep, and social engagement can promote brain health and protect against dementia.

🤯 Myth #2

Myth: "Brain health cannot be improved."

Truth: The brain has the remarkable ability to change and adapt throughout life, known as neuroplasticity. Engaging in challenging mental activities, such as learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or solving puzzles, can strengthen neural connections and enhance cognitive function.


🧠 Tips for Brain Health and to Help Reduce Your Chances of Cognitive Decline Illnesses (like Alzheimer's)

  1. Stay physically active: Engage in regular exercises such as brisk walking, swimming, or dancing. Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, enhances memory, and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
  2. Follow a brain-healthy diet: Consume a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Research suggests that the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes these food groups, is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline. (Source: Alzheimer's Association)
  3. Engage in mental stimulation: Challenge your brain with activities that require mental effort and novelty. Read books, learn a new skill, solve puzzles, or play strategy games. Such activities can help build cognitive reserve and improve brain function. (Source: Harvard Health Publishing)
  4. Maintain social connections: Stay socially active by spending time with loved ones, joining clubs or community groups, or volunteering. Social engagement contributes to cognitive vitality and emotional well-being. (Source: Alzheimer's Society)
  5. Prioritize quality sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night. Sleep plays a crucial role in memory consolidation and overall brain health. Establish a regular sleep routine and create a comfortable sleep environment. (Source: National Institute on Aging)

💤 ...and speaking of Sleep

It's all happening again!

I received so much love and great feedback from so many of you after my last 21-Days Sleep Optimization Challenge, that I knew I had to run it back one more time. Now, on demand!

If you aren’t sleeping well and making it a priority, you are actively hurting your mental health and your brain, your chances of developing cognitive decline-related illnesses like Alzheimer's or dementia, shortening your life, and reducing its quality at the same time.

This is a life-changing beginner's sleep optimization program for busy go-getters looking to start their journey to improve the QUALITY of their sleep, well-being, and raise their vibe [and life] in 21 days.

That's YOU, Reader!

... so hurry and grab your spot :)


🧠 Brain Trivia

1. True or False: The brain is the largest organ in the human body.

2. Which part of the brain is responsible for processing and forming memories?

a) Cerebellum
b) Hippocampus
c) Amygdala
d) Frontal lobe

3. True or False: The brain consumes about 20% of the body's total energy.

---

Talk to you soon!

-Candy

Trivia's answers:

  1. False (skin is the human body's largest organ)
  2. Option b
  3. True (For the average adult in a resting state, the brain consumes about 20 percent of the body's energy).


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Candy Calderon

Check out the resources I offer focused on evidence-based strategies for brain health, mental health, sleep optimization, and well-being. My CEO Wellness Club newsletter has helped thousands of professional millennials maximize their potential, performance, life balance, cognitive fitness, and longevity. Sign up now!

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