Jul. 4--BRATTLEBORO -- Vermont ranks fourth in a new index measuring the nation's "brain smarts" based on diet, social well-being and physical and mental health.

The comprehensive state-by-state "life'sDHA" Index of Brain Health, released at the end of June, was completed by Martek Biosciences Corp. based on 21 brain health indicators.

Vermonters scored as a top brain-healthy state for watching their waistlines, reading for personal interest, the high education values, a spirit of volunteerism and for devouring more fruits and vegetables per capita than anywhere else in the country.

But it also might have something to do with Vermont's fondness for fish.

"The results show that the majority of the top 10 ranked states border or are near the Atlantic or Pacific oceans and appear to have an advantage when it comes to brain health," according to index advisor Dr. Michael Roizen. "One hypothesis is the accessibility of fish with its healthy fats and protein."

The index evaluated all 50 states and the District of Columbia on specific indicators, comparing the data to the national average for each. After weighing the importance of each indicator to brain health, an overall index score was calculated.

Medical experts and researchers worked with Martek to develop the index to increase awareness of the issue and to encourage better practices to achieve a healthier brain.

"Americans can pay more attention

to their mental muscles and really support long term brain health," said Roizen. "While many understand what to do to be heart-healthy, they are not as familiar with the steps to keep their brains smart, such as feeding it good fats like DHA omega-3, and staying physically, socially and mentally active."

Along with the overall top-five ranking, Vermont also scored No. 1 in the category of fish sales as well as fruit/vegetable consumption.

"Fruits and vegetables have antioxidants in them that control the free radicals in your brain, contributing to long-term brain health," said Cassie France-Kelly, spokeswomen for the survey.

While Vermont has a higher ranking for Alzheimer's deaths, the state also posts top grades for mental health when it comes to education and playing games.

Not surprising to volunteers in Windham County, the Green Mountain State also finished first (tied with Montana) for community participation, which experts say is a sign of good social well-being.

"When people are socially connected, it has been shown to contribute to long-term brain health and maintaining cognitive function throughout life," said France-Kelly.

In the index description, Vermont residents received a "pat on the back for using their brainpower to do good deeds. Vermont is the highest-ranking state in the area of community involvement, including volunteerism."

However, Vermonters did score poorly on the indicator for religious/spiritual activities. The state finished dead-last in the category.

The District of Columbia finished with the top "brain smart" ranking because of DHA omega-3 fortified diets and a high level of reading for personal interest. Maryland and Washington finished two and three, respectively.

New England states dominated the top-10 with Connecticut (No. 5), Massachusetts (No. 7), Maine (No. 9) and New Hampshire (No. 10) joining Vermont as the top "brain smart" states according to the index.

Louisiana ranked lowest in the nation, followed by Alabama at No. 50 and Oklahoma at No. 49.

Chris Garofolo can be reached at cgarofolo@reformer.com or 802-254-2311 ext. 275.

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