KEEP YOUR BRAIN FROM SHRINKING

Just 1 Mile Keeps Your Brain from Shrinking

POWER WALKING

Our brains tend to shrink as we age, just like a piece of fruit on the counter. But you could help keep your brain plump and young just by walking about a mile a day.
That's right. In a 9-year study, people who walked just 6 to 9 miles each week preserved significantly more gray matter as they aged, compared with their more sedentary peers.

Steps Worth Taking
What's so great about a big brain? It likely means more mental power. In the study, not only did the walkers have less brain shrinkage, but also that translated into a twofold reduction in their risk for cognitive impairment. What's more, the researchers also looked at the benefits of physical activity in people already suffering from cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease and found that a mere 5 miles a week of walking seemed to slow progression of the condition. So when it comes to brains, bigger really is better.


Nurture Your Noggin
Although the study didn't prove that physical activity was the direct cause of the brain benefits in the participants, similar studies have shown that aerobic exercise boosts both the production and the survival of new brain cells. And it's possible that physical activity may also trigger the birth of additional nutrient-delivering blood vessels in the brain, all of which would translate into a bigger, better brain as you grow older. So strap on those walking shoes!
And try these other brain-protective tools as well:

• Make plans. Having a life plan or purpose-driven life keeps your brain healthy.
• Play more.

WHAT’S FOR DINNER?!

Lamb Chops with Roasted Carrots and Curry Butter

 

Prep Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

40 mins

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

• 8 medium carrots (about 1 ¼ lbs), halved crosswise and quartered lengthwise
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 teaspoon mild honey
• 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
• 8 -12 rib lamb chops (¼ to ½ inch thick; 1 ½ lb total)
• Accompaniment: steamed couscous

 

Directions

Preheat oven to 450F with racks in upper and lower thirds of oven.
Toss carrots with 2 Tablespoons oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Place on a small foil lined baking sheet and roast in lower third of oven, stirring halfway through, until carrots are just tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
Turn on broiler.
Meanwhile, stir together lemon juice, honey, curry powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a small bowl until combined.
Place chops on a foil lined 4 sided baking sheet or broiler pan. Season with ¾ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Broil 4 to 6 inches from heat, turning once, until chops are medium rare, 5 to 6 minutes total.
Top some butter on hot carrots and dollop on lamb if desired.

 

about this recipe

Most kids like carrots and roasting really brings out their earthy sweetness. Tossed with a composed butter made with curry powder and fresh lemon juice, alongside broiled lamb chops, it's a sophisticated weeknight supper, but the butter can be optional for the less adventurous.