Slow down Dementia’s Evolution with Lifestyle Changes

You thought cancer scares people the most? Well, think again. Dementia has overtaken cancer. It’s time to set some rules, take action, and prevent diseases.

It’s well-known that more years go by, adults tend to lose their cognitive function. You can’t stop it, but you can slow its progress, according to STLtoday.com. Even more, researchers have shown ways to slow Alzheimer’s progress too.

Patients suffering from Alzheimer should try studying new stuff, walk for at least 30 minutes, keep themselves busy, and follow a low-glycemic diet. There are a few principles to respect when you start this diet. You must remember that 40% of your calorie intake should come from complex, unrefined carbohydrates such as whole grains and fruits instead of juice. The next 30% comes from lean protein such as chicken, fish or, if you are a vegetarian, soy, tofu and vegetables. The last 30% of the daily calorie intake should come from healthy fats, such as avocado, olive oil or nuts.

“After about age 30, we stop learning new things like we did continuously in school and college. We're also not as physically active. Our nutritional habits also influence our brain and those things accelerate the changes in the brain caused by genetics,” says Dr. Abhilash Desai, Center for Healthy Brain Aging.

Now, you shouldn’t think aging is a bad thing. After the age of 30, brain connections increase in complexity and richness, meaning you tolerate stress better. Also, stay socially connected so you would lower risk of strokes and dementia. “It's a use-it-or-lose-it kind of thing. Or maybe the social support neutralizes stress. Chronic stress has negative effects on the brain,” Desai said.

Think positive and get good quality sleep. Small, healthy changes in your lifestyle can make a difference.