POSSIBLE WAYS TO PREVENT ALZHEIMER ’ S DISEASE
STORY BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION
Researchers around the globe continue to investigate Alzheimer ’ s disease , the most commonly diagnosed form of dementia . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Alzheimer ’ s disease is a progressive form of dementia that affects around 6.5 million people in the United States . Since Alzheimer ’ s affects parts of the brain that control thought , memory , and language , notable symptoms include memory loss and difficulties communicating .
Alzheimer ’ s is a debilitating condition , so naturally people want to do all they can to avoid it . Right now there are no proven prevention strategies nor a cure . However , the Mayo Clinic says there is strong evidence that healthy lifestyle habits may play a role in reducing risk , as well as risk for other types of dementia . The Alzheimer ’ s Association and the Mayo Clinic recommend these strategies to help reduce dementia risk .
REDUCE RISK FOR HEART DISEASE
Some autopsy studies show that as many as 80 % of individuals with Alzheimer ’ s also have cardiovascular disease . Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels may , in turn , help individuals reduce their risk .
EAT A BALANCED DIET
Many doctors recommend the Mediterranean diet , which is rich in vegetables , fruits and lean protein coming from sources containing omega-3 fatty acids . This diet also is heart-healthy .
EMBRACE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Regular physical activity may lower the risk of Alzheimer ’ s , as well as vascular dementia . Exercise can boost blood and oxygen flow in the brain . Cardiovascular exercise is an essential part of any wellness plan .
QUIT SMOKING
Quitting smoking can help maintain brain health and reduce the risk for various diseases .
AVOID HEAD INJURIES
Always wear protective safety equipment when participating in sports or while riding motorcycles or other motorized vehicles . Fall-proof your home and wear seatbelts while riding in cars .
MAINTAIN CONNECTIONS & ACTIVITY
Studies indicate that maintaining strong social connections and keeping mentally active as people age might lower the risk of cognitive decline as well as Alzheimer ’ s .
KEEP A HEALTHY WEIGHT
Manage weight through diet and exercise .
Although there is no guaranteed way to avoid a dementia diagnosis , certain lifestyle changes may help people reduce their risk .
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