Do This and You’ll Never Have Alzheimer’s

“Why did I open the fridge?” Roma was wondering to herself. She had just turned 52 this summer, and had started experiencing small instances of forgetfulness. Nothing major, just the small things. Like, unable to remember her daily routine. She would lose her keys, phone, charger a few times a day. She forgot her important meetings too. 

Roma was experiencing early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Alzheimer’s disease affects your memory, behavior, and thinking ability. Although it can affect both men and women, women are more affected by it. Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women. While there are different opinions about why women are more affected than men, let’s understand how to prevent Alzheimer’s after 40 in women. 

Preventing Alzheimer’s in women after 40

There is no alternative to a fit body:

No matter how cliché it sounds, there is no denying that exercise keeps your mind and body fit. Moderate to high-intensity aerobic exercises three to four times a day can help you avoid Alzheimer’s or at least slow its progression. Balance and coordination exercises help you to stay agile. Yoga, Tai Chi are good forms of exercise to try. 

Eat well

A Mediterranean diet is recommended by experts to help avoid dementia among women. An ideal diet should contain healthy portions of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, nuts, eggs, lean meats, dairy, and legumes. 

Take care of your sleep:

Sleeping 7-8 hours every day is necessary not just to avoid Alzheimer’s but to overall stay fit and healthy. 

Make mindful lifestyle choices

Although there is not much research done in the area, some studies have indicated that greater social contacts help avoid Alzheimer’s. Connect with your loved ones face to face, join a club or volunteer your time. Know your neighbors, teach in group classes or visit your local communities. 

Manage your numbers

Studies have revealed that high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar have a closer connection with Alzheimer’s. If you have these parameters beyond normal, take the help of your doctor to manage your numbers. Studies have also proved that obesity alters the brain to raise the chance of developing Alzheimer’s. 

Stimulate your brain

Although there is no clear indication, some studies have suggested that keeping the brain active lowers the chances of developing Alzheimer’s. Tickle your brain by learning new things, solving puzzles, and doing riddles. All these are good workouts for the brain to stay active. 

Limit saturated fat and sugar:

Full-fat dairy products, carbs, sodium, and alcohol are a no if you want to avoid developing Alzheimer’s. Cut down sugary food like white flour, white rice, pasta, or any kind of packaged food with hidden sugar. 

Say yes to Omega 3 fats:

The DHA found in the healthy fats may help prevent Alzheimer’s by reducing beta-amyloid plaques. Include cold-water fish in your diet like tuna, salmon, sardines, and fish oil. If you’re a vegetarian, flax seeds are a good source of Omega 3 fats. 

Women and Alzheimer’s – When to seek help

If you notice a decline in your memory like confusion of places, difficulty with handling money, inability to remember and accomplish daily tasks, you should speak to your doctor for early detection and evaluation of your condition.