Six Pillars of a Brain Healthy Lifestyle

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The six pillars of a brain healthy Alzheimer’s prevention lifestyle are:

1. Healthy diet.
Eating habits that reduce inflammation and promote normal energy production are brain-healthy habits. To eat brain-healthy try consuming foods like green tea, ginger, fish, soy products, and blueberries, and other dark berries can protect these vital cells from damage. Be sure to get plenty of omega-3 fats that are found in cold water fish but also avoid trans fats and saturated fats..

2. Regular exercise.
Regular exercise may decrease your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by up to 50%. To maximize your brain-protection benefits strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Be sure to incorporate balance and coordination activities.

3. Mental stimulation.
It’s important also to stay mentally in shape by continuing to challenge yourself. Learn something new every day, practice memorization, and engage in cognitive puzzles. Keep your mind sharp by practicing the 5 W’s. Ask yourself “Who, What Where, When, and Why” throughout your day.

4. Quality sleep.
Commonly people with Alzheimer’s disease suffer from insomnia and other sleep problems. Deep sleep is necessary for memory formation and uninterrupted sleep for flushing out brain toxins. If you have a problem with snoring, get tested for sleep apnea. Treatment can make a big difference in your health and quality of sleep.

5. Stress management.
Chronic to severe stress takes an enormous toll on the brain, which can lead to shrinkage of a critical memory area, the hippocampus. Stress alters your breathing rate, quiet your stress with deep, abdominal breathing. It’s simple and it’s free.

6. An active social life.
Humans are naturally social; we don’t thrive in isolation, and neither do our brains. Staying socially active will better your memory and cognition. When socializing, you don’t need to be a social butterfly, think quality, not quantity. Become engaged by volunteering, joining a club, or visit a local community center or senior center.

Aside from these six great tips be sure to watch out for health hazards. Smoking is one of the most preventable risks for Alzheimer’s disease. It’s important also to drink alcohol in moderation and maintain a healthy weight.

Contact us HERE to learn more about how our certified and licensed professionals at The Orchard can help you with Alzheimer’s Disease prevention and management.