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Hypertension & more ::
prevent the onset alzheimers
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How to prevent the onset of Alzheimers disease - some possible answers
This illness affects the cerebral cortex in the initial stages and the earliest sign may be plain old forgetfulness. In later stages, there may be near-total loss of the ability to think and function as usual. So is primary prevention of Alzheimers feasible? The answer is at best, 'maybe'. The challenge is that the disease is still not well understood. That's why there are only ambiguous answers to questions on prevention. Researchers theorize that if you maintain a healthy lifestyle coupled with a high level of mental activity, it may help prevent Alzheimer's. Accordingly, the following steps may help. Remember that there are no guarantees, however. * Keep the brain active Physical activity builds muscle mass the keeps the muscles and the body in good condition. Mental activity does something similar for the brain neurons. As you use the brain regularly placing demands on thinking and creativity, new neurological pathways and connections are formed. There seems to be a bit of truth in that old wag, "Use it or lose it!" Keep mentally active by doing mathematical puzzles, word games, crossword puzzles and the like. Play chess or other brain-intensive games. Join a debating club or your local Toastmasters. Learn a musical instrument you were not familiar with before. Take up art appreciation, do painting, drawing, etc. Learn about different cultures, attend cultural functions and performances. You get the idea -- keep those grey cells buzzing and you probably will go some way towards preventing Alzheimer's. * Develop the habit of daily physical exercise The plus points of regular, moderate physical activity are very well known. Better health of the body tends to keep the brain in better condition. With exercise, there's increased oxygen flow into the brain and the body releases chemical cocktails that make you feed good. Exercise may help with primary prevention of Alzheimers. Take your doctors advice before starting an exercise regimen. There are many options including yoga, aerobics, long walks, gym routines and more. * Make a commitment to eat healthy Cutting down on fat and cholesterol in your diet will help. You know what that means -- avoid junk food. Foods to prevent Alzheimer's include plenty of vegetables (including leafy vegetables), fruits, fish, nuts, etc. These help to build up and strengthen your brain cells. Of course, they help the rest of the body too, for instance, fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants can help prevent many diseases. Check with your nutritionist / doctor to tailor a diet that suits you. * Great relationships help too Many studies have concluded that you tend to live longer if you have high quality, varied relationships in all areas of life, including family, work and social life. Great relationships contribute to your sense of well being. So join up some hobby groups, for instance. Get involved in a walking club. Play an active part in block parties and in community organizations. Get together with friends and plan out of town trips. Will all these steps prevent the onset of Alzheimers? There is no definite answer, but they may contribute. In any case, they should lead to a better experience of life and keep you healthier overall.
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