Healthy Ways to Combat Alzheimer's or dementia

Per experts, the best way to fight off Alzheimer's or dementia is by keeping your brain active and eating a healthy diet.

As people get older their brain’s intelligence is put under strain.

Researchers from the University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain have found in their study that having a higher level of vocabulary is one factor that helps prevent Alzheimer's or dementia. There are several other factors that can help you or your loved ones protect against Alzheimer's in their old age.

There are many studies that link one or the other factor to lower the risk of dementia. However, it’s unlikely that a single factor will be able to prevent this condition. The best way you can ward off the risk of dementia is by following a healthy life style.

Here are some healthy ways you can cut down your risk of developing Alzheimer's or dementia:

Walnut: A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, pointed out that some popular nuts such as walnut play positive role in reducing the risk, slowing the progression, delaying the onset or in preventing the disease all together. Walnuts are packed with vitamins and minerals and are significant source of alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid with brain-health benefits.

Conditions that lead to cardiovascular disease: Conditions that are identified as increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, is also linked to increasing the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Regular workout regime and heart healthy diet may be a beneficial strategy to combat Alzheimer's disease.

Social connection: Scores of studies indicate that maintaining strong social connection and by being mentally active as we age, we can lower the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's. Social and mental stimulation strengthens connection between nerve cells in the brain.

Head trauma: There are enough studies that show a strong link between future risk of Alzheimer’s and serious head injury. This is especially true when head injury involves loss of consciousness. You can prevent head injury by driving safely, wearing a seat belt and using a helmet when playing sports/driving and taking all precautions to live an injury free life.

Quality sleep: It is common to see people with Alzheimer's disease to suffer insomnia and other sleep disorders. Studies reveal that disrupted sleep is not just the symptom of Alzheimer's disease, but is actually a risk factor. There are number of studies that link poor sleep to higher levels of beta-amyloid which further interferes with sleep. Deep sleep is essential for memory formation, while uninterrupted sleep helps flush out brain toxins. You should aim at getting least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep.