There are some cold facts when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease
- An estimated 47 million people worldwide today have Alzheimer’s
- By 2050, that number is projected to not only double but TRIPLE
- Currently, there is no cure for the disease
However, studies have shown that there are ways to fight off the onset of memory loss
- Exercise
- Continuing education
- Not smoking
- Proper sleep
- Maintaining social relationships
- Maintaining a healthy diet
A study recently published in the journal Neurology says that there are identifiable risk factors for sporadic Alzheimer’s that may be discovered early into adulthood that could lead to a decline in cognitive function. The part of the brain that is most associated with memory, the hippocampus, can show signs of risk before clinical symptoms become present. Young adults who are at a genetic risk for Alzheimer’s have by comparison.
Dr. Richard Isaacson of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic states that “Alzheimer’s disease starts in the brain many decades before the first symptoms of memory loss appear, but what’s happened over time is that most people don’t realize their risk until they start having memory loss”.
In a study conducted last year in the United Kingdom, fear of Alzheimer’s was greater than cancer and financial worries. There are certainly lifestyle choices available to all of us that can help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s. Proper nutrition can yield many benefits, lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s among them.
- Mediterranean dieting – Consuming a higher volume of vegetables, beans, whole grains, fish, and olive oil (limiting meat and dairy products) has been shown to dramatically decrease the risk of cognitive impairment.
- Stay away from trans fats and saturated fats – These two fats are known to bring about inflammation which can be hard on the brain. Avoiding full-fat dairy, red meat, processed fast food and fried dishes can keep consumption of these fats at bay.
- Seek out omega-3 fats – DHA present in omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease by reducing beta-amyloid plaques. These fatty acids are prevalent in many cold-water fish like salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel, and sardines. Fish oil can also be used as a supplement.
- Daily teatime – green tea when consumed regularly has been known to enhance memory and mental alertness and slow down the aging process of the brain.
