Alzheimer’s disease is the common cause of the degeneration of the brain in a large percentage of the aging population. It accounts for the majority of dementia as it is characterized by loss of memory and cognitive function in addition to drastic behavioral changes. And physical degeneration also happens often with Alzheimer’s.
There is plenty of testing and plenty of research is being conducted to help prevent the onset of the disease. However, we are a long way off from finding a cure. But there are 15 things that neurologists can do in order to prevent or lessen the effects of the disease. They are listed below.
#15 – A Baseline Brain Scan Is Highly Recommended
The best thing to do is for patients who are aging is to get a baseline brain scan through an MRI or a CT scan. This can show if there are signs of degeneration happening in the brain such as mini-strokes that have occurred without the patient even knowing. If there are signs, treatment can start early to help prolong it and to lessen the severity.
#14 – Learn A New Language
Studies have shown that speaking more than one language can help with warding off dementia as it builds areas of the brain up. The gray matter of the brain is strengthened and exercised when you are learning a new language. Of course, do it at your own pace, but it is one of the best exercises to do for your brain.
#13 – Sleep Is Important
Sleep is important and getting good quality sleep is what you want. This means ideally getting 7 to 8 hours of good quality sleep a night, or getting some naps in during the day if you cannot get that much sleep. Sleep helps to repair the body and brain, and this can help ward off Alzheimer’s.
#12 – Stay Connected With Friends
Being social is important, even if you cannot see friends due to being tied down with a lot of responsibilities, technology has made socializing virtually a thing! That includes texting your friends, interact with them on social media, and just talk to them in other ways. This alone can lower the risk of dementia if you are talking to your friends regularly.
#11 – Learn DIY Skills
One way to keep your brain preserved is by learning some DIY skills such as building furniture or repairing things you can repair that is not in need of a contractor. If you learn new skills, that will keep your brain stronger as it is a great workout.
#10 – Activity Is Important
When you do a physical workout, it is not just your body moving. It is good for your brain. Remember that your body is connected to your brain. Therefore, a healthy body will help keep the brain strong too. And all you need to do is a 20 to a 30-minute brisk walk. No need to hit the gym unless you want to.
#9 – Your Heart Health Is Important
You want to keep your heart healthy by exercising and eating foods that will help keep your heart strong. If you do that, then your brain will benefit as there is a heart-brain connection.
#8 – Manage Stress
Stress is an inevitable part of life that you cannot escape. However, a little stress is good for you as it keeps you motivated. But when stress is too much, it can cause many health problems with your body and your brain. Learning to manage stress by going for counseling and getting the right tips is what you need to do to keep your brain strong.
#7 – The MIND Diet Works
The MIND diet is specifically designed to keep your mind strong. You eat 3 portions of whole grains, 2 portions of vegetables whereas one of them is a leafy green. Have nuts for snacks, and berries as well. You then have protein such as fish and poultry, and a glass of wine a day, with a small piece of dark chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cacao. They have brain-boosting properties.
#6 – Get A Sleep Study If You Snore
If you are told you are snoring then you need to get a sleep study done to make sure you don’t have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a strong marker for Alzheimer’s. It also has a serious effect on the heart health which is why it needs to be checked. If you are treated for it, then you can save your brain.
#5 – Never Forget To Wear A Helmet When Riding
Whether you are bike riding, motorcycle riding, or horseback riding, you must wear a helmet. There are laws and rules put into place that make helmet wearing mandatory. However, if you don’t wear a helmet, you know the consequences could be devasting. If anything it is an Alzheimer’s;s risk if something were to happen.
#4 – Green Tea Helps
Properties in green tea have been found to help improve the health of the brain. In fact, it has been found that green tea has properties to help reduce dementia so be sure to have a cup of it daily. It keeps your brain clean from the plaque that forms which is harmful.
#3 – Add Turmeric To Your Dishes
Turmeric is a strong-tasting spice and it is delicious in many dishes. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and it is one of the treatments that neurologists are looking more into for Alzheimer’s. There is evidence pointing to this spice keeping your brain safe.
#2 – Meditate
Meditation is the best way to help you manage stress. It also is a great way to cleanse the brain. Therefore, it is helpful for warding off Alzheimer’s. Just do it for 15 minutes a day, or longer if you choose. Go into a room where you will not be disturbed and allow your mind to cleanse itself.
#1 – Yoga Helps
Yoga is helpful for the mind and the body and since both are connected, these stretching and calming exercises will be beneficial for your mind and body. Therefore, this is another way to help stave off dementia and other ailments of the brain.
Therefore, even if you are predisposed to Alzheimer’s, you can help stave it off by doing these 15 simple things!
