Issue Date: December 14, 2008
3 strategies for healthy brains
Lessen Alzheimer's risks.
Several risk factors for developing Alzheimer's disease have been identified. An important one is family history, but because we can't change that one, the folks at the Alzheimer's Association recommend that we instead focus on good "brain health."
I believe this approach makes a lot of sense. Giving people tools they can use to improve their odds works best. There are three important strategies to accomplish this goal:
Protect your head. The connection between the development of Alzheimer's and previous head trauma is real. Make practical habits to protect your head part of your routine (wear a helmet while cycling, use a seat belt, avoid falls when working on ladders, etc.).
Protect your heart. Everything you do that's good for your heart's arteries (such as controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar) is good for your head's arteries, too.
Protect your youth. Healthy aging is important for maintaining a healthy brain. Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, exercise regularly, and stay intellectually and socially engaged to improve your brain health as well as your general health.
Alzheimer's can be a destructive force in a family. Knowing your risks and adjusting those you can is the best way to keep your brain vibrant and functional.
Tedd Mitchell, M.D., president and CEO of Dallas' Cooper Clinic, writes HealthSmart every week.
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