Aging is never easy. But the prospect of failing to recognize friends and loved ones is awful. The bad news is that Alzheimer’s is currently affecting the lives of as many as five million Americans, but the good news is that this disease is increasingly preventable—and the prevention strategies can be truly pleasurable.
What you’re feeding your body’s most important organ is pretty critical, too. According to Dr. Barry Mannen, a diet low in trans and saturated fats is a great start (the rest of your body will thank you, too). “Further,” Dr. Mannen explains, “try to eat as much grass-fed beef as possible since their meat has less saturated fat than grain-fed.”
Related: The Athletes At The Senior Games In Florida Will Amaze You
Still feeling peckish? Dr. Mannen recommends snacking on “berries, nuts, and seeds” for their high levels of Vitamin E. Studies show that Vitamin E may help prevent Alzheimer’s, but it must be consumed naturally—you won’t absorb the E correctly by just gobbling vitamins. A bit too Paleo for you? Not to worry: there are variations to fit your fancy.
Dr. Ellen Albertson, founder of Smash Your Scale, agrees with much of Dr. Mannen’s advice. She tells us, “If you want to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s, eat a healthy Mediterranean diet and avoid simple carbohydrates and saturated fats.” It turns out what’s good for your heart is good for your head as well (eating well and working out are good for both the brain and body). Dr. Albertson also recommends that we load up on olive oil, vegetables, and Omega-3 fatty acids (think Atlantic salmon and Bluefin tuna).
Already delicious, but her tips just get better: “While there is less evidence of their benefits, foods high in flavonoids (i.e. cocoa, red wine, and tea) and caffeine may reduce risk.” So…now we have an excuse for that glass of wine and chunk of dark chocolate? We’re game.
Being fit doesn’t end with Dr. Lacagnina’s gym tips, however. Dr. Mannen suggests that we “engage in mental activities that exercise brain power, including crossword puzzles, playing cards, reading, and playing Scrabble.” Let’s hope that Words With Friends counts as a way to prevent Alzheimer’s too (yes, we are still playing; no we are not proud of this).
So the upshot here? Alzeimer’s is terrible. But staving it off by living an active and healthy life, eating well, and enjoying ourselves? We can handle that.
More stories you’ll enjoy: