Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, a degenerative syndrome with declines in a person’s memory, thinking, behavior, and ability to carry out day to day activities.
The causes of Alzheimer’s disease are unknown, but there is usually an accumulation of the tau and amyloid-beta proteins in the brains of those affected. Cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, and a genetic predisposition can increase your chances of having Alzheimer’s.
However, you can protect yourself from the disease through the following measures:
- Exercise
The benefits of regular physical exercise are abundant, and its role in preventing the development of Alzheimer’s disease is just another one of them. 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily is enough to achieve this.
With regular workouts, the progress of Alzheimer’s disease can be slowed as well.
- Eat Healthily
Eating healthy diets that contain vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy oils and moderate quantities of poultry meat are some tips to follow when it comes to eating healthy. You can also cut down on alcohol and include more nuts in your meals.
It always pays to eat right.
- Get enough sleep
Adults need between 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily. This amount of sleep is enough for you to be refreshed on waking and current evidence shows that it can also help reduce your chances of having Alzheimer’s.
- Stay Socially Active
Staying connected to people is good for your brain and evidence suggests that it may help you avoid diseases like Alzheimer’s. In the end, everyone needs someone so, try to go out more, meet new people, and keep your current connections to family and friends active.
- Keep Your Brain Sharp
Remaining mentally active has also been linked with reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease. So, never stop learning, even when you are out of school. It helps your brain remain sharp. Learning also offers you a wider range when it comes to socialization and navigating life issues.
So, pick a book or a new hobby today.
By Dr. Okonkwor Oyor C.
