Maintaining a healthy brain is an
important part of overall health. If you feel like your memory is getting worse
with every passing birthday, you aren’t alone: it happens to all of us as we
age. The good news is there are ways to help prevent or lessen memory loss.
1. Challenge yourself. Medical evidence suggests that lifelong stimulation
is the key to building and maintaining brain cells, staving off memory loss and
maybe even preventing Alzheimer's disease. Try doing interesting work (paid or
volunteer), pursuing hobbies, engaging in an active social life, taking music
or language lessons, or learning a new computer program.
2. Take a daily low-dose aspirin. Some studies link the use of aspirin and other
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) with reduced risk of Alzheimer's.
3. Supplement with vitamins C
and E. A study at Johns Hopkins University
suggested that vitamins C and E taken together might slow the progression of
Alzheimer's.
4. Use a daily multivitamin that provides adequate levels of folic acid and other
B vitamins. They help the body reduce levels of homocysteine, an amino acid
formed by the breakdown of animal protein that, at elevated levels in the
bloodstream, has been linked with increased risks of Alzheimer's.
5. Use healing spices in your
cooking: Turmeric, ginger and red pepper can add
zing to meals and are all natural anti-inflammatories.
6. Eat a diet rich in omega-3
fatty acids, including wild Alaskan salmon,
sardines, freshly ground flaxseed and walnuts.
7. Incorporate plenty of fresh,
organic fruits and vegetables in your meals.
8. Reduce your intake of
polyunsaturated vegetable oils (such as sunflower,
corn and safflower oils), replacing them instead with a high quality
extra-virgin olive oil.
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