Brain-healthy lifestyle measures from young adulthood can delay significantly the onset of age-induced Alzheimer’s and related dementias later in life.
It’s never too late to start ‘exercising’ to prevent memory loss!
Brain-healthy lifestyle measures from young adulthood itself can delay significantly the onset of age-induced Alzheimer’s and related dementias later in life, suggest city doctors.
Side effects
“In addition, good health habits can reduce the risk of illnesses that might affect your memory as well as the likelihood that you’ll need medication that could have damaging side effects,” said Indian Medical Association (IMA) president K. K. Aggarwal.
Nearly four million people in India are living with some form of dementia. Research has shown that risk of dementia can be slowed through a combination of simple but effective lifestyle changes.
Multiple risk factors
Associtation honorary secretary R.N. Tandon added that Alzheimer’s is a very complex disorder and has multiple risk factors. While risk factors like genetics and age are beyond one’s control, some others that can be modified form the basis of a brain-healthy lifestyle.
Stress management
“These include stress management, regular exercise, good sleep, healthy diet, mental stimulation and social engagement. A low-fat, high-fibre diet including plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and wholegrain can help reduce the risk of some kinds of dementia,” he added.
Along with diet and exercise, it’s important to engage in regular mentally stimulating activities to keep brain cells up and running.
This is particularly beneficial for those who have crossed their 40s, noted an advisory statement released by the association.
Dr. Aggarwal added: “Try doing light brain-stimulating tasks like crossword puzzles, quizzes, daily reading or anything similar that interests you. For older individuals, it’s advised that they engage their mental reserves through social engagement and exercise. For most people, a minimum of 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week such as cycling or fast walking is recommended. Good sleep should supplement these activities to obtain complete benefit.”
REFERENCE:
March 16, 2017.Simple lifestyle modifications can help reduce risk of dementia.The Hindu.retrieved from
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/simple-lifestyle-modifications-can-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/article17469087.ece
