A new study finds healthy choices may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
This new study comes from UCLA.
Researchers found the combination of a healthy diet, physical activity and normal body mass index can decrease the type of damage that causes Alzheimer's disease.
44 adults between the ages of 40 and 85 who had mild memory changes but not dementia were scanned with an experimental type of PET scan. A PET scan is an imaging test that produces a 2 or 3-dimensional image and is an effective way to examine parts of one’s body.
The researchers were looking for signs of Alzheimer’s. Specifically a build-up of plaque called beta-amyloid in the spaces between nerve cells in the brain.
They also looked for tangles: knotted threads of tau protein in brain cells. The participants leading a healthy lifestyle had a reduction in plaques and tangles on the brain scans.
As many as 5 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s in 2013. It’s predicted this number will jump to 14 million by 2050. It’s very important to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Partha’s RX for Delaying Alzheimer’s:
1. Eat a balanced and healthy diet
Fruit, vegetables, legumes and fish are great choices.
2. Make regular exercise a priority
It may directly benefit brain cells by increasing blood flow and oxygen
3. Protect Your Head
Serious head trauma is linked to future risk of Alzheimer’s. So wear a seat belt and use a helmet for sports or bike riding.
4. Maintain a Healthy Body Mass Index
You want to be between 18.5 and 24.9
A person's BMI, or body mass index, is based on their height and weight. We use this number to determine if someone is underweight, normal weight, or overweight. There are online sites where you can enter your information or you can ask your family doctor.
