To prevent or reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease, the primary recommendations focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle that supports brain and cardiovascular health. Key steps include staying physically active with at least 150 minutes of exercise weekly, managing health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, eating a nutritious Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, preventing or treating hearing loss, staying mentally and socially active by engaging in cognitive activities and social interactions, and avoiding head injuries are important measures. While no certain way to prevent Alzheimer's exists yet, these lifestyle choices have strong evidence to potentially lower risk and promote overall brain health.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits
- Regular physical activity benefits both heart and brain health.
- A Mediterranean diet helps reduce risks by addressing heart-related factors.
- Control of diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol is crucial to prevent brain damage.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
Cognitive and Social Engagement
- Activities like reading, puzzles, learning new skills, and social engagement stimulate the brain.
- Treating hearing loss helps maintain social connectivity and cognitive function.
Other Considerations
- Protect the head from injury with precautions like seat belts and helmets.
- Regular health check-ups to monitor risk factors improve prevention efforts.
These combined strategies provide the best current approach to minimizing Alzheimer's risk.
