Last Updated: 24th July, 2022
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a progressive and irreversible disease of the brain that leads to memory loss, affects thinking ability and interferes with the ability to carry out simple day to day tasks, in advanced stages. Even though the disease mostly affects people in their old age, Alzheimer’s disease is not a part of the natural ageing process. Researchers are not sure why some people get it and others don’t. But they have found that the symptoms are caused by nerve damage.
According to a research study published in the Indian Journal Of Medical Research, around 36 million people have dementia all over the world and Alzheimer’s disease accounts to 50-75% of all dementias. It is expected that by the year 2050, the number of cases of Alzheimer’s will increase threefold. Let’s learn a bit about some of the common 7 livelihood changes that can lower your risk of suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).
7 Livelihood Changes To Reduce Risk Of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)
It is suggested that the same factors that put you at risk of heart disease may increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. These include sedentary livelihood, obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. So here are some 7 livelihood changes to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).
1. Most Specialists Recommend Adding More Berries To Your Diet
Adding berries in diet are good for overall health, including the brain. Berries can lower the risk of brain damage and improve cognitive function. Delicious berries are great for your brain health as these are rich in antioxidants known as anthocyanosides those which fight memory debilitation.
Having berry fruits as a snack or in the form of smoothies on a regular basis can be of great help. So the next time you go shopping, fill your basket with berries such as blueberries, strawberries, gooseberries, mulberries and blackberries.
2. Have Omega-3 Fatty Foods
Oxidative stress and inflammation are one of the key factors that contribute to aging and the development of age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Omega-3s are the good fatty acids your body needs to fight inflammation and improve your cognitive function.
Studies have found that people who consume higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their daily diet have a lower chance of getting Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). These fats are found in fish like salmon and tuna. Vegetarians can reap its benefits in the form of pills as omega-3 supplements are easily available in the market.
3. Strictly Say NO To Alcohol And Smoking
Regular smoking and high levels of alcohol can adversely affect your mental health, impair your cognitive function and make you vulnerable to not only Alzheimer’s but many other psychological problems. If alcohol is a part of your livelihood, it is best to cut down on your alcohol consumption and hold your drinks for longer.
Choose the red wine since its high antioxidant protects brain cells from the toxic effects. If you smoke, then it’s high time to kick the butt as it not only increases your risk of various health problems but also puts people close to you in danger!
4. Keep Your Blood Pressure And Diabetes In Check
High blood pressure is closely related to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Several studies have reported that blood pressure is increased in victims of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) decades before the onset of the disease. But keeping your worries and the salty dishes away, you can cut down high blood pressure risk.
Drink lots of water and keep track of your blood pressure to lower your risk of heart disease and Alzheimer’s. If you have diabetes, make sure you stick to your diet and medications.
5. Stay Physically And Mentally Active
That exercise is one activity that fits all. Around 30-60 minutes of daily cardio exercise or aerobic workout can keep your flow of hormones active and in the right direction. Being physically active can help improve the blood circulation and also boost your mental health.
This can help you to stay fit both physically and mentally as you grow old. It keeps you fit and away from various health risks whiles also reducing your chances of getting Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).
6. Boost Your Mental Health
Live a life that stimulates you mentally! There are tons of ways to keep your brain active and functioning fine, but choose the one that makes you happy. Some of the ways to boost your brain include reading, solving puzzles, learning a musical instrument, origami, taking different courses and learning new languages.
These activities can help you to train your brain to be more fit and boost your cognitive function. There are also ‘brain training’ interventions which include computer games that improve the cognitive functioning of the brain.
7. Have A Positive Social Circle
Till now the exact cause of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is not known, it is believed to be caused due to various complex events that happen in the brain which occurs with age. Also, one positive way to keep your brain stress-free and calm is to be happy and surrounded by people you like.
Be social and maintain good relations with your friends and families. A healthy support system and livelihood changes around us builds our resilience to psychological problems. Stay close to your support system and be at peace with yourself.
Spread this word to everyone you know by sharing the article with them personally. Remember, being secure is always better than being sorry!