Air, oil, games: 3 ways to power brain

Q: Can you give me some simple suggestions for how to protect my brain and avoid memory problems as I get older? — Eric F., White Plains, New York

A: Three of my favorite ways to protect your brain health are to reduce your exposure to air pollution; get plenty of healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil and the omega-3s in salmon; do speed-of-processing games.

Air pollution increases inflammation, contributes to memory loss and can cause plaque in arteries to break off and trigger heart attack and stroke. Inhalation of small particle pollutants contributes to impaired cognitive development, diabetes and bone diseases.

A new study that looked at data on 90,000 Americans over three decades found that consuming at least a half a tablespoon of olive oil daily is associated with a 28 percent lower risk of fatal dementia.

Plus, replacing 1 teaspoon of margarine and mayonnaise with the equivalent amount of olive oil per day was associated with an 8 percent to 14 percent lower risk of dying from dementia. Another study says getting a good supply of omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, supplements) increases blood flow in the brain.

One study found that doing speed-of-processing games for just 18 hours over 10 years decreased the risk for dementia by over 30 percent, and when 73-83 year olds did speed-of-processing exercises two hours a week for five weeks, they reduced their cognitive deficits by 33 percent.

Q: I turned 63 and I have lost interest in sex and am tired much of the time. It’s embarrassing to admit, but should I see a doctor about it? — J. T., Miami

A: Yes, you should see a doctor any time you notice a change in your well-being or functioning.

While only about 1 percent of younger men have testosterone deficiency, 30 percent of those over age 50, and as many as 50 percent of men over 80 may have it. TD is also more likely if a guy is a smoker, has thyroid-related issues, elevated LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, chronic stress or anxiety, or consumes excess alcohol.

TD can lead to fatigue, mood swings, erectile dysfunction and lack of interest in sex. Treatment is available using testosterone-releasing agents (which we prefer, to avoid testicular shrinkage) or testosterone creams, pills or injections — so you and your doctor have to weigh your risks and benefits.