The skinny on brain health

Grandpa Gustafson, played by Burgess Meredith, proved old doesn't equal slow-witted in “Grumpy Old Men” when he coined the 10 funniest euphemisms for lovemaking ever heard. (Sample: “Taking old one-eye to the optometrist.”)

Unfortunately, for the 12 million or more North Americans 60 and older who are obese, the prospects for such an entertaining old age are, well, not so funny. A new study lays it out: overweight plus old age equals dementia.

But we have an equally simple formula that can spare your aging brain from the weight-gain brain-drain.

Take a walk for at least 45 minutes six days a week and do strength-building two to three days a week. It's especially good for you if you're older and out of shape. Yes, AARP member, you can do it!

Add friends, family and lovers to your social mix -- face to face, not on Face Time. Loneliness is associated with everything from higher blood pressure and less happiness to weight gain.

Subtract heart-stopping saturated fats (think “burger”) and add healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids in salmon and omega-9 monounsaturated olive oil. Losing weight isn't about starving; it's about a healthy eating style.

Multiply these steps with Dr. Mike's secret for weight control: walnuts and almonds! Starting a meal with six walnut halves or 12 almonds can help you see a 50 percent greater shrinking of your waistline. The walnuts are good for your brain and heart, too. So go nuts! And have a fun-filled (and longer) life.

Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Medical Officer at the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute. For more information go to www.RealAge.com.