A breakthrough study looking at white matter in the brain is showing that the key to longevity may just be in how well you manage your blood pressure.

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But it makes a huge difference how you manage your blood pressure!

Scientists have been observing the effects of high blood pressure for many years. But this new study marks a change in that they are no longer just observing blood pressure’s effects on the brain and cardiovascular system; rather, they are studying intervention and how managing blood pressure literally slows aging.

Doctors at UConn Health Clinic are looking at groundbreaking research to determine the effects of controlling high blood pressure on how the brain functions.

[adrotate group=”5″] Chronic, uncontrolled high blood pressure causes there to be too much white matter in the brain, which is a known factor in cognitive decline. This marker for aging was studied using 3 types of blood pressure monitoring before and after intervention.

In the study referred to as INFINITY, doctors measured the blood pressure for adults over age 65 at the doctor’s office, using at-home monitors, and also a 24-hour device that takes a reading every 15 to 30 minutes.

They were able to determine that those who had the best results in lowering their blood pressure over time also had lower amounts of white matter developing in the brain. This was even after controlling for high cholesterol and other lifestyle factors like smoking and exercising.

What’s important to keep in mind is that the side effects of blood pressure medications can actually increase the white matter developing in the brain. It’s therefore important to do everything you can to use lifestyle changes to manage blood pressure instead of drugs.

The most effective method to lower blood pressure and slow aging is the use of easy mind/body exercises. These exercises help lowering blood pressure below 120/80 – often the very first day.

Learn more about and test drive our blood pressure exercises here…