Right now, there’s no proven way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Research into prevention strategies is ongoing. The strongest evidence so far suggests that you may be able to lower your risk of Alzheimer’s disease by reducing your risk of heart disease. Many of the same factors that increase your risk of heart disease can also increase your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Important factors that may be involved include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, excess weight and diabetes.
Exercise
Regular physical exercise may be a beneficial strategy to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. Some evidence suggests exercise may directly benefit brain cells by increasing blood and oxygen flow. Even stronger evidence suggests exercise may protect brain health through its proven benefits to the cardiovascular system. Because of the known cardiovascular benefits, a medically approved exercise program is a valuable part of any overall wellness plan.
Right Diet
Like exercise, diet may have its greatest impact on brain health through its effect on heart health. The best current evidence suggests that heart-healthy eating patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, also may help protect the brain. A Mediterranean diet includes relatively little red meat and emphasizes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, fish and shellfish, and nuts, olive oil and other healthy fats.
Use your head
A number of studies indicate that maintaining strong social connections and keeping mentally active as we age might lower the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. Experts are not certain about the reason for this association. It may be due to direct mechanisms through which social and mental stimulation protect the brain. Alternatively, people who eventually develop Alzheimer’s may feel less inclined to engage in socially and intellectually stimulating activities years before current diagnostic methods can detect symptoms. Keeping active — physically, mentally and socially — may make your life more enjoyable and may also help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Some foods can also slow down the progression on Alzheimer’s diease. They tend to be high anti-oxidants. Read about that here.
If you like this post, read our Series on Alzheimer’s :
Alzheimer’s Disease: Why do we Age? – Part 1
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease – Part 2
Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease – Part 3
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