Home › Healthy Brain Aging

Blood Flow and the Brain: Why Healthy Circulation Matters for Memory and Focus

What is good for your heart is good for your head.

Quick answer

Although the brain makes up only about 2% of body weight, it receives roughly 15 to 20% of the blood pumped by the heart, delivering the oxygen and glucose it needs to function. With age, blood vessels can stiffen and narrow, and high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking can reduce healthy blood flow. Research consistently links heart health with brain health. Regular aerobic exercise, a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, olive oil and fish, keeping blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol in healthy ranges, not smoking and staying hydrated all support healthy circulation to the brain.

Key takeaways

Every second, your heart pumps blood carrying oxygen and fuel to your brain. Keeping that supply healthy is one of the best things you can do for your mind.

The brain's blood supply

FactDetail
Brain weightAbout 2% of body weight
Share of blood flowAbout 15–20%
Main fuelsOxygen and glucose
StorageVery little, so it needs a constant supply

What affects blood flow

Ageing

Blood vessels become less elastic over time.

Blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar

Keeping these in healthy ranges protects vessels.

Lifestyle

Smoking, inactivity and poor diet affect circulation.

Supporting healthy circulation

Aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, eat plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, olive oil and oily fish, limit salt and processed foods, stay hydrated, don't smoke and have regular check-ups. Neuro Serge includes grape seed and bilberry extracts, which support healthy blood vessels, along with green tea, olive leaf, cassia cinnamon and DGL licorice.

Know the signs of stroke (BE FAST): Balance loss, Eyes (vision changes), Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services. Never wait.

Sources

  1. American Heart Association – "Life's Essential 8: heart health and brain health."
  2. Gorelick P.B. et al. – "Defining optimal brain health in adults," Stroke, 2017.
  3. National Institute on Aging – "Heart health and the brain."

Common questions

How much blood does the brain use?

Roughly 15 to 20% of the blood pumped by the heart.

How can I support blood flow to my brain?

Exercise regularly, eat a heart-healthy diet, don't smoke and keep blood pressure in check.

Is heart health linked to brain health?

Yes, healthy blood vessels support a healthy brain.

← Back to home

↑