When I assumed the role of editor in chief of this magazine in 2014, the concept of brain health was just beginning to capture public interest. So I aimed to expand our focus to add stories on brain health to our robust coverage of neurologic diseases and treatments. Over the years, we have learned so much more about the factors that contribute to brain health.

Good oral health, for example, is critical, as you will learn in our feature that illustrates the links between periodontitis—advanced gum disease that can damage the bones that anchor the teeth—and dementia. Regular dental care is more than a cosmetic issue; it may reduce your risk of cognitive decline as well.

The pursuit of a healthy brain has, not surprisingly, created a market for products claiming all kinds of health benefits. While dietary supplements are supposed to be added to your diet to help you achieve nutritional goals, many people—including some of my patients—believe they can circumvent the harder work of getting proper nutrition (like incorporating aspects of a Mediterranean diet), decreasing sodium consumption to lower blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and increasing physical activity.

I must admit, talking about supplements with my patients is difficult. I understand the appeal. Who wouldn't want to simply take a pill to improve health? The truth is that aggressive advertising and marketing by manufacturers has given us great hope for these products. But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn't approve dietary supplements for any purpose. The agency's bottom line is that if a supplement promises a cure or quick fix for a health problem, it is probably too good to be true.

As I tell my patients, I try to follow the science. If there's proof that a supplement might work, take it. To read more about what neurologists think of vitamins and supplements, check out our Healthy Living nutrition story. These experts believe your money is better spent on good-quality fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, or a gym membership.

If going to a health club is impractical or inconvenient, be sure to read our Healthy Living story on virtual fitness classes. For inspiration to get moving, read our profile of Catherine Mullett, a young woman with moyamoya disease who joined the Special Olympics as a competitor in track, bowling, and softball. Or read our feature on pro basketball player Chris Wright, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in his early twenties and has gone on to compete at the highest level of his sport, becoming the only NBA player with MS.

Mental health is also an important part of brain health. Our emotional state can affect our physical state, which is why self-care and asking for help are so important. That is the message of our cover story on Hector Elizondo. The actor's mother died from Alzheimer's disease in her late sixties and the strain of caring for her took a toll on his father's health. Elizondo emphasizes that support is available for families and others who take care of those with dementia. In a related sidebar, we provide a balanced review of the new Alzheimer's drugs, medications that may help those in the early stages of the disease.

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN), which is a leading authority on unbiased neurologic information and public education, has made it its mission to focus on brain health. In future issues, we will tell you more about the AAN's Brain Health Initiative, which will address brain health throughout every stage of life to lessen the public health burden of neurologic disease and injury.

Once again, we are grateful to the readers who responded to my request for stories about how the arts have helped them heal. You'll see their letters in this issue. I have another request: We want to know what steps you take to guard your brain health—from following a healthy diet and exercising to stimulating your brain and socializing. If you have a story to tell, write to us at BrainandLife@WoltersKluwer.com.

Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA, FAAN, Editor in Chief