Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer's

Reducing Alzheimers Risk

The D-licious

Vitamin D may play a key role in preventing Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, say researchers. Various studies are now linking a lack of vitamin D to such conditions as heart disease, diabetes, depression, osteoporosis and periodontal disease -- which are often precursors to Alzheimer's disease. Further, those who suffer from periodontal disease are often lacking in vitamin D.

In addition, people who get plenty of vitamin D have less of a risk for heart disease than those with a vitamin D deficiency due to its ability to reduce inflammation and assist in brain function and development. If vitamin D levels are a concern for you, consider eating more eggs or popping a vitamin D supplement.

The B-list

Experts say taking vitamins is always important, and that holds true for reducing Alzheimer's risk. What's the recommendation? It depends on what you're lacking. "It's important to see what your vitamin and mineral intake is and where you're deficient," says Dr. Calapai. He suggests working with your doctor to put together a plan for, say, taking Vitamin B.

Heart Healthy Food

According to Laurel Coleman, M.D., a geriatric physician and member of the national board of the Alzheimer's Association, one way to reduce your risk is to implement a heart healthy diet that's low in fat and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. She explains, "What's good for your heart is also good for your head."

Red, Red Wine

"Red wine has antioxidants, so we mention it as one of the many things you can do to reduce your risk of Alzheimer's," says Dr. Coleman. Though it's OK to have one or two glasses on most days, this alone will not help prevent the disease. "We tell people to look at the range of things to do along with the other things such as eating a low-fat diet, eating fruits and vegetables, watching your cholesterol, remaining physically active and socially active in general."

Mental Gymnastics

TStay stimulated by forcing your brain to make connections. Christopher Calapai, D.O. and board certified in anti-aging medicine, says to task your brain with activities like crossword puzzles. "It integrates your brain in a variety of ways," he says. For instance, if a clue is asking you to spell Mozart, it's very likely you're making a connection and thinking about listening to the music, the composer, etc. "It integrates your brain in a variety of ways," he says. For instance, if a clue is asking you to spell Mozart, it's very likely you're making a connection and thinking about listening to the music, the composer, etc.

Get Movin'

Exercise does a body good. With the case of Alzheimer's, it does a brain good, too. Dr. Calapai explains, "There's evidence that exercise brings more oxygen to your brain, it helps burn excess sugar, it enhances hormones and is good for blood flow." The recommendation is to move your body several times a week for at least for thirty minutes doing some kind of aerobic activity such as walking.

Avoid Heavy Metal

Fish is rich with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but it can also contain a lot of mercury. Dr. Calapai's recommendation? Stay away from shrimp and shellfish, and watch out for aluminum in general. "Don't use aluminum foil, pots and pans or deodorant with aluminum as an ingredient."

Advil Anyone?

Studies have shown that pain relievers naproxen (Aleve is one brand) and ibuprofen (Advil is one brand) can reduce Alzheimer's risk. The medications block enzymes that promote inflammation, fevers and pain. A study from Johns Hopkins University and the National Institute on Aging found that patients who took ibuprofen and nonaspirin non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs lowered their risk of developing the disease by 60.

S is for Statins

A commonly prescribed class of cholesterol-lowering drugs known as statins may lower the risk for Alzheimer's disease. According to the Archives of Neurology, a 2000 study showed that statins reduced the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by 73. Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is imperative to overall good health, so it also plays a role in reducing the onset of this disease.

AP

Trim Down

A recent study linked abdominal fat (sometimes described as having an apple-shaped body rather than a pear shape) to a higher risk of Alzheimer's or dementia down the road. A large belly is also linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes, stroke and heart disease. Our advice? Trim the fat, seriously. "Any deposition of fat is essentially added stress on the body," notes Dr. Coleman.