Because we can't see the brain we often neglect what it needs most. However, Alzheimer's start to develop 30-50 years before one shows any symptoms and currently there is no cure on the horizon for it. Dementia (another word for Alzheimer's) affects up to 50% of over 85 year olds and is a horrible, frustrating disease that leaves its victims confused and forgetful. Along with difficulty thinking or concentrating, Alzheimer's may cause irritability, mood swings and bouts of anger, anxiety and fear which can lead to faster ageing overall.
This reaffirms how important it is not to wait until one is sick or struggling before becoming serious about brain health and knowing what can be done to best prepare a healthy brain long-term.
By being aware of the things you can do in order to keep your brain young, focused and support healthy longevity of it, you are taking conscious steps each day to prevent its deterioration. The list below outlines examples of some of the possible points to take in mind and incorporate into your day to strengthen your brain health and therefore lower your chances of developing Alzheimer's.
What decelerates and slows down brain ageing? (do more of these things!)
Positive peer group
Protecting the brain (avoiding injuries)
Clean environment without toxins
Physical health
Healthy weight
8 hours of sleep per night
New learning and challenges
Stress management
Low inflammation in the body
Great diet full of whole, plant based foods
What accelerates and speeds up brain ageing? (avoid these things wherever possible!)
Brain injuries
Drugs, smoking & alcohol
Obesity
Sleep Apnea
Diabetes
Hypertension
Toxins in the environment or your home
Poor diet
Stress / Depression
Lack of exercise
Unhealthy peer group
Our brain is what keeps us alive. Although we cannot control everything, we can definitely make the effort to incorporate and avoid certain elements in our lives to make sure that we are nourishing and protecting the motor that fuels our every move.
