Loneliness as a secret killer: This is how you protect your brain!

Loneliness as a secret killer: This is how you protect your brain!

Innsbruck, Österreich - The alarming consequences of loneliness on health are the subject of intensive research: Studies show that loneliness has a similar harmful effect on the brain as smoking 15 cigarettes daily and thus the risk of dementia and stroke. This was emphasized at a press conference at the Medical University of Innsbruck, where vice -preserator and neuroscientist Christine Bandtlow spoke about the dramatic statistics in Austria. Currently there are between 130,000 and 150,000 new dementia annually, with a forecast doubling of this number by 2050 due to demographic change and unhealthy lifestyle decisions, as Bandtlow explained how .

special concerns for researchers the increasing loneliness among the population, especially since corona pandemic, has intensified social isolation. Katharina Hüfner, director of the University Clinic of Psychiatry II, pointed out that every fifth person in Austria suffers from mental illnesses, with anxiety and depression most common. She also explained that a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced, Mediterranean diet, is crucial for the prevention of brain diseases. The connection between loneliness and mental illnesses was demonstrated by numerous studies, which were summarized in a comprehensive analysis of the psychological effects of Covid-19, according to the findings of Springer .

prevention approaches

The Medical University of Innsbruck plans to specifically clarify the age group of 30- to 40-year-olds about prevention measures. The “International Week of the Brain” in March is all about the prevention of brain diseases. This includes recommendations from the WHO on physical activity and conscious nutrition, which, in addition to physical health, should also promote mental Fitness. In particular, the importance of a fiber -rich diet, enriched with healthy fats such as olive oil, was highlighted. In addition, sugar consumption should be viewed critically, since diabetes mellitus increases the risk of dementia, which in turn can result in dangerous health consequences, as Susanne Kaser, deputy director of the University Clinic for Internal Medicine I, explained in detail.