Alzheimer's is an insidious disease that robs people of their memories, dignity, independence and eventually their life. There is no cure for this disease and nothing to do if Alzheimer’s runs in your family. But even though you can’t prevent a person from getting Alzheimer’s, there are lifestyle changes everyone can make to reduce the chance of getting the disease.
Instructions
1. Avoid head injuries. Studies show that head traumas or brain injuries that result in loss of consciousness increase the risk of getting dementia and Alzheimer’s. Wear seat belts every time you are in a car, van, truck or other vehicle. Use helmets when riding a bicycle or motorcycle. For activities like horseback riding, skateboarding and using roller blades, be sure to wear protective headgear. Also try to avoid falls around the home, especially when in the shower.
2. heart healthy. With heart disease one of the leading causes of death in the United States, keeping your heart healthy cannot only help reduce the chances of heart attacks, cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes, it can also help with Alzheimer’s. The heart pumps blood throughout the body, including the brain, and this nutrient-rich blood is important in maintaining brain functions. Try to lower your cholesterol level and your intake of refined sugar to reduce the likelihood of adult-onset diabetes. Eating foods to improve your heart will also improve your brain.
3. Eliminate or reduce recreational toxins. Smoking increases the risk of heart disease, not to mention numerous other diseases including cancer. Reduce your intake of alcoholic beverages. Don’t use illegal drugs or abuse prescription drugs. Ridding your body of toxins can give you an overall healthier body.
4. Keep your brain active. Engage in activities to keep your brain sharp. Read books, do crossword puzzles, math problems and other things to challenge you mentally. Even physical exercise can help by getting the heart pumping and the blood flowing to your brain and other organs. The more you use your brain, the more connection between cells, and the more mentally alert you can be. The brain is a muscle--and just like with the muscles of your arms or legs, if you don't use them, they atrophy. Keep yourself physically and intellectually active with hobbies.
5. Consider adding more vitamin E and fish to your diet. Scientific research has found indications that some foods may help lower the chances of getting Alzheimer's. Among these were foods rich in vitamin E, including oil-based salad dressings, fortified cereals, green leafy vegetables, cantaloupe, seeds and nuts. One study found that people who eat fish at least once a week were 60 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those who rarely or never ate fish.
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