Depression has been linked to increased odds of having heart disease or stroke. Risk increased by 24% with each additional level of depression severity, according to a study of 11,000 adults with depression.

Aging in the brain can be accelerated by reduced heart health. Cardiovascular aging can reduce the supply of energy and blood to the brain, which can lead to brain dysfunction.

The standard American diet is made up in half by ultra-processed foods, which include packaged snacks, soda, sweets, chips, and other convenience foods, which have a negative impact on heart health.

A study of 1.1 million older adults found that those who increased their physical activity as they aged reduced their risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, for both men and women.