Reduce Your Odds of Dementia
If you’re like most people, you shudder at the thought of getting Alzheimer’s, yet you probably are unaware that you may be able to reduce your chances. According to a recent article in the Los Angeles Times (“Eight things you can do now that might reduce your odds of dementia later”), what is good for the body is good for the brain. Here are some of the recommendations:
Stay active – increasing your oxygen supply through physical activity may also help your brain.
Eat well – Eating well can impact how you think and the smart money may be on a Mediterranean diet.
Don’t smoke – smoking in middle age can double your odds of developing dementia.
Sleep well – sleep is vital for your brain.
Avoid diabetes – many studies have linked diabetes to dementia and cognitive decline.
Don’t worry; be happy – Being stressed or depressed can over time decrease your cognitive function.
Lifelong learning – continue to challenge yourself mentally with puzzles, books, projects, etc.
None of these recommendations are surprising. Simply by taking care of yourself, you may avoid dementia. Who doesn’t want that?
