How to Help Prevent the Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, which is a chronic condition of the brain. The disease slowly destroys brain cells, affecting memory and thinking skills. Over time, those with the illness will be unable to do even the simplest of tasks. According to the National Institute on Aging, it is estimated that more than six million Americans over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s disease. Sadly, many younger people also have the illness.
Although there is currently no cure, there are lots of things that we could do to help prevent the condition from developing. Keeping the brain healthy is known to be one of the best ways of preventing Alzheimer’s disease from occurring.
How to Keep the Brain Healthy
The biggest risk factor by far for Alzheimer’s disease is actually the process of getting older; as you know, there is nothing that will stop that. However, doing all you can to remain fit and active and giving your brain a “workout” will help to minimize the risk.
Exercise Regularly
Staying physically active promotes good mental and physical health. If you are currently physically inactive, it is best to start off with a small amount of gentle activity, such as walking or light swimming sessions. You can then build up from there. The risk for Alzheimer’s disease decreases in those who regularly take part in both aerobic and strength building exercises.
When trying to establish a new exercise routine, try to find something that you enjoy or you will never stick to it. You might like swimming but hate running. It makes sense therefore to join a local gym where you can access their swimming pool.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
You can reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by eating a healthy and balanced diet. The Mediterranean diet is recommended by Dr. Gad Marshall, associate medical director of clinical trials at the Center for Alzheimer Research and Treatment at Harvard -affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He says that this diet can help to slow progression of the disease. A Mediterranean diet includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables with healthy fats such as olive oil, oily fish, whole grains, nuts, and legumes. Dairy products, poultry, and red wine can be consumed in moderation while red meat should be eaten sparingly.
Exercise Your Brain
It is thought that keeping the brain active can also help to slow down cognitive decline. Taking time to learn new skills, such as learning to play an instrument or a new language, may help to delay or even prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s.
Other activities such as crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and other brainteasers are also a fun way to engage the brain and keep it fit and healthy.
Cognitive Enhancers
The naturopathic doctors at KIYA Longevity use a variety of nootropics to promote cognitive health. There are ongoing studies into the effects of noopept on the brain and how it can protect certain cells against oxidative damage.
Stay Social
Although often difficult, it is important to maintain social connections as we age. Loneliness can lead to mental decline, which can then lead to the onset of illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Interacting with other people encourages the use of various mental skills such as listening to what people have to say and recalling things that are relevant to the conversation.
Conclusion
Although Alzheimer’s disease cannot be cured, there are some things that can be done to delay or even prevent its onset. Keeping the brain fit and active through a combination of regular exercise and healthy eating is the best way to stave off mental decline.
