How to Decrease the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

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By DrJewell
eHow Contributing Writer

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Researchers and scientists around the world are continually working towards a cure and to develop medicines to slow down Alzheimer's Disease, which affected approximately 26.6 million people in 2006. Although there isn't yet a cure, there are factors such as diet, cardiovascular health and intellectual activities that are said to affect your risk of contracting Alzheimer's. Here are a few ways to cut down your risk.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Include "brain-healthy" foods in your diet such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, pasta and potatoes. These types of foods comprise the so-called, Mediterranean Diet, which is known to fight Alzheimer’s, and heart attacks and strokes as well. Studies have shown that people who exercise, limit their intake of meat and dairy and follow the Mediterranean Diet have a 53 percent less chance of getting Alzheimer’s.
Step 2

Maintain the proper weight and avoid obesity. Studies now show that obesity has a connection with Alzheimer’s, as well as diabetes. The more overweight a person becomes, the more insulin they develop and the higher the chances of their blood vessels becoming inflamed. An increase of beta-amyloid (sticky plaques) can clog the brain.
Step 3

Drink plenty of fresh fluids, including water, to help flush out toxins and help hydrate your body and brain.

Tips & Warnings

If you smoke, quit. Although the most common outcome of smoking is lung cancer, some doctors also believe there is a connection between smoking and Alzheimer’s. There isn't concrete proof that smoking speeds up the process for developing Alzheimer's, but studies show a decline in mental skills among elderly people who smoke.
This article is not a substitute for seeking proper medical advice from your own medical doctor or healthcare professional.

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Comments

jbaby said

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on 11/7/2009 53% less chance is a big deal

askapeach said

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on 10/31/2009 Your article is helpful and I hope to continue doing many of these. Alzheimer's Disease is such a devastating disease that affects the entire family!