Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention
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Presently, there is no way that Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented. There is a lot of research on this subject, all aimed at slowing, delaying, or preventing Alzheimer’s disease. A lot of agencies and persons are also involved in the research including:
- Pharmaceutical firms
- Researchers
- Foundations
- Nonprofit organizations
Researchers are all investigating the various AD treatments which they think may be of help including:
- Antioxidants (such as vitamin E, beta-carotene, and vitamin C)
- Cognitive training
- Supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Hormones, treatment with type 2 diabetes
- Cardiovascular treatments
- Exercise
Minimizing your risk
There are many steps that one can take to reduce his or her risk of getting Alzheimer’s. The reader is advised to consult his or her physician prior to embarking on major lifestyle changes.
Eat a healthy diet
Studies have shown that the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease can be reduced when one takes a Mediterranean diet. A small amount of red meat is included in this diet. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes:
Studies have indicated that antioxidants may have an effect on age-related changes in the brain. Studies conducted on mice and rats have shown that berries improve cognitive function, both in animals undergoing normal aging and those who have developed Alzheimer’s disease. Examples of berries that may be of help include:
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Cranberries
Another study investigated curcumin. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. It has very potent antioxidant properties. The study indicated that curcumin suppresses the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brains of rodents.
Maintain your mental exercise
The risk of AD is reduced when the brain is active. Activities that keep the brain in an active mood include:
- Reading dailies and newspapers
- Listening to the radio
- Visiting museums
- Playing puzzle games
When you take part in mental exercise, you contribute to cognitive reserve. What this implies is that you will develop more neurons in the brain; this translates to the creation of additional pathways. What makes this so important?
Normally, there is only one part for the transmission of information from one point to the other in the brain. If there is a dead-end or a barrier, the information will not be transmitted. People who think in different ways develop new pathways or alternative routes in the brain. This eases and hastens the transmission of information.
The following activities can help you exercise your brain:
- Doing crossword puzzles
- Learning a new language
- Taking up a bridge
Boost your social life
Studies have shown that elderly people who spend more time within their immediate environment are at a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who move around or travel a lot. However, these findings also reflect the general health of the individuals.
According to the Mayo Clinic, making contact with your environment helps boost your physical, mental, and emotional health.
Perform aerobic exercise daily
Adults with Alzheimer’s disease who partake in aerobic exercises have an improvement in their behavioral and psychological symptoms.
Studies by the Mayo Clinic have shown that at least 30 minutes of daily aerobic exercise plays a crucial role in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. An 8-year study examined the link between physical activity and mental function in 6000 women above the age of 65. It was discovered that women who were more active had fewer chances of a decline in their mental function.
Do not smoke
Smoking increases one’s risk for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The risk is not increased in those who smoke less than half a pack daily. The risk is also not increased in former smokers. If you have been smoking, this is the best time to quit. Consult your physician so he could draw up a plan for withdrawal.
Lowering homocysteine
Homocysteine is an amino acid. It occurs naturally in the blood. Studies have shown that a high level of homocysteine in the blood is a risk factor for:
- Vascular dementia
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cognitive impairment
Homocysteine level is lowered by foods rich in folic acid and B vitamins such as B-6 and B-12. Whether or not increasing these B vitamins in one’s diet might offer a protective effect for AD is yet unknown.
Excellent sources of folate include:
- Spinach
- Romaine lettuce
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Parsley
- Collard greens
- Lentils
- Beets
- Cauliflower
Foods rich in B-6 and B-12 include:
- Red meat
- Fish
- Fortified cereal
- Non-citrus fruit
- Eggs
- Poultry
What’s the summary?
Effective ways of preventing Alzheimer’s disease is not yet known. There are however many things that can be done to reduce one’s risk of developing the disease. Staying physically and mentally fit, eating a balanced diet, and living a social life reduces one’s risk of developing a cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease. As a plus, these steps also help one to live a healthy life. If you are to embark on any lifestyle changes, please do well to consult your physician.
Tonika Bruce, MSN, RN, MBA. is an accomplished nurse leader, published author, and personal development expert passionate about advancing healthcare management and quality patient outcomes.
She taps into the years of experience in healthcare management to produce credible and easy-to-understand health and leadership content. Her exceptional work has been featured in reputable publications, including Forbes, Recruiter, Inc, and the Color of Wellness magazine.
