How to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is becoming more prevalent in today’s society – affecting more than 4.5 million Americans, with its devastating effects literally destroying the lives of those who suffer from it. From the early signs of confusion and memory loss, it eventually affects one’s total ability to function. There is no cure yet for Alzheimer’s, although there is much ongoing research and many promising treatments. Doctors know that an early diagnosis is key, and scientists are also studying how to prevent Alzheimer’s disease before it starts.

While there is no definitive answer yet as to whether Alzheimer’s can be prevented, there are several possible preventative measures that the medical community suggests healthy individual’s follow to try and prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Many of the same risk factors that cause stroke, diabetes, and heart disease have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease too. With the numbers of Alzheimer’s sufferers expected to triple by the year 2050, anything you can do to prevent Alzheimer’s disease is worth looking into. So what preventative measures can you take now to reduce your risk of getting Alzheimer’s later?

Exercise Regularly

Develop a regular exercise program now – don’t wait. Exercise not only keeps your body fit, it also has been shown to have a positive effect on your brain functions, especially your cognitive ability, which is what Alzheimer’s attacks first. And don’t just relegate physical activity to thirty minutes three times a week – engage in a hobby like gardening or a sport like golf to keep your body moving on a daily basis.

Stay Mentally Active

One of the best ways to try and prevent Alzheimer’s disease is to keep your mind active. Enjoy a rich social life; visit museums and cultural exhibits, and make lifelong learning a part of your life from now on. Challenge your brain with crossword puzzles or SuDoku. Watch stimulating shows on TV, go to the movies, and of course, read, read, read! Visit your local library, subscribe to your favorite magazines – these are just a few of the ways to keep your mind engaged and hopefully prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Eat Right

There is much research to support the claim that your diet is probably a key factor in the fight to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Eating fish, using canola oil, and adding flax to your recipes are all ways to supply your system with rich omega-3 essential fatty acids, known to slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s in individuals who have the disease. Tumeric is a spice that scientists believe can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Eating green leafy vegetables and broccoli, lowering your carbohydrate intake, and reducing your calories are all ways that medical researchers believe you can protect yourself.

Don’t Forget Your Vitamins!

It’s wise to take daily supplements to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. You’ll want to choose a multivitamin with vitamins C and E, which are known to be some of the most powerful antioxidants. Studies have shown that taken regularly, they do offer some protection against Alzheimer’s. There are many good sources of high-level supplements on the market today.

Deal with Depression

Many people become depressed in middle age, and scientists now think this is an indicator of Alzheimer’s as well as stroke. Certain studies have indicated that those suffering from a history of depression are twice as likely to get Alzheimer’s disease. If you find yourself with depression, don’t ignore it. Get help from your doctor or a therapist – you’ll enjoy a better quality of life now, and you may prevent Alzheimer’s disease in the future.