Dementia has no cure, but you can cut the risk. Playing an instrument can help
In the next three years, India is expected to race ahead of the US to become the country with the maximum dementia
patients. The stats found a mention in the Dementia India Report 2010
prepared by the Alzheimer's and Related Disorders Society of India
(ARDSI).
Together with the World Alzheimer Report 2012, it
estimates that the number of people with dementia above the age of 60 in
India will rise from the current 3.7 million to 4.41 million by 2015.
There are two major types of dementia — Alzheimer's disease, a condition in which parts of the brain
waste away, and Vascular dementia caused by inadequate blood flow to
the brain. Sufferers typically experience symptoms such as memory loss
and personality change. "In some cases, it's genetic," says Dr Bob
Lister, chairman of London
Metropolitan University's Institute of Brain Chemistry and Human
Nutrition. "Patients with either type of dementia often have parents who
suffer from the same condition." There is presently no cure for
dementia. But research has uncovered ways we can all decrease its risk.
Anti-dementia 8 fold path
Sharpen your mind: Mental
exercises strengthen the brain. Studies have found that solving puzzles
can reduce dementia onset. Frequent mental activity creates connections
between nerve cells in the brain, making them more resistant to
deterioration. Evidence suggests those with higher levels of education
develop symptoms later in life, say experts. Expand your mind by
learning an instrument or reading a good book.
Do as the Japs do: Evidence
suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent both, Alzheimer's
and Vascular dementia. Recent studies have found that nations such as
Japan, with diets high in fish, have lower rates of the diseases in
addition to longer life expectancies. Eat oily fish such as tuna,
sardines and mackerel.
Keep yourself active: Looking
after your heart is the first step to protecting your brain. It's all
about blood flow. The brain uses 20 per cent of the oxygen in the blood
pumped around your body. 20 minutes of any cardiovascular exercise a day
will help improve your health.
Limit junk food: According
to Dr Lister, a well-balanced diet and healthy weight are essential in
the fight against dementia. Foods low in saturated fat, like wholegrains
and lean meats, keep cholesterol and blood pressure low. A recent New
Scientist report linked blood sugar diabetes, caused by diets high in
sugar, and Alzheimer's. Eat five portions of fruits and vegetables a
day.
Take it easy: If you're struggling with
stress, it might save your future health if you learn to manage it
better. Studies suggest that depression can lead to dementia. If you're
struggling to cope with stress or are feeling down, you should speak to
your neighbourhood doctor.
Get better sleep: Getting
plenty of shuteye is vital for your brain. Disordered sleep patterns in
mid to late life may affect the protein amyloidbeta, associated with
Alzheimer's.
Cut out booze and cigarettes:
"Common habits that can kill off your brain cells include smoking and
drinking too much," Dr Lister says. Quitting smoking improves
circulation in the brain almost instantly. And when it comes to boozing,
make sure you remember your daily limits — three to four units for men
and two to three units for women.
Get out and socialise: Maintaining
an active social life can help delay the onset of dementia. Some
scientists believe that by keeping socially active, this may help
strengthen the brain's connections so that they're more resilient to
damage later in life.
~geniusses
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