The term “dementia” combines pathologies such as loss of memory and other mental abilities. These processes are caused by changes in the brain. Although age-related dementia can have genetic factors, lifestyle plays a big role in reducing the risk of this disease.
Dementia is a general term for disorders that affect the brain. Symptoms of dementia are not limited to the elderly. How can you reduce your chances of developing dementia?
How to reduce the risk of dementia
Avoiding processed foods, focusing on a Mediterranean diet and being physically active reduce the risk of dementia. What else can be done to prevent this condition?
1. Avoid high levels of copper in water
Copper is essential for healthy bones, hormones, and nerves. But an excess of this metal adversely affects the brain.
Copper can be a trigger for Alzheimer’s disease. It is still difficult to say what concentration of copper is really dangerous, but it is better to replace copper water pipes. It also makes sense to use water filters to reduce the percentage of copper.
2. Avoid certain drugs (for example, for allergies)
Drugs associated with dementia have an anticholinergic effect that is commonly associated with dementia.
In patients who are prescribed anticholinergic drugs, there is a decrease in brain metabolism and increased brain atrophy. Memory also suffers.
Chronic use of certain anticholinergic hypnotics and hay fever medications increases the likelihood of dementia.
Some antidepressants, drugs for COPD, asthma also contain the potential danger of developing dementia.
3. Sleep in a position that is good for the brain
The position of the body when you sleep plays a big role in the well-being of the brain. The fact is that the correct position in a dream affects the outflow of harmful substances in the brain (cleansing it from toxins and other harmful substances).
Sleeping on your side improves the brain’s cleansing process, reducing the chances of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
4. Avoid pesticides
Environmental triggers for dementia are known. These include DDT and insecticide.
DDT has already been banned, but remains in the environment for decades. Animal and fatty foods contain the highest levels of DDT and breakdown products. Also avoid eating non-organic foods imported from countries that still use DDT and follow the fish guidelines if you are fishing for food.
Many modern pesticides have brain-damaging effects. This occurs when eating food treated with acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide.
5. Live a Purposeful Life
Purposefulness reduces the risk of developing dementia. A life filled with meaning makes a person happy and positively affects brain function.
6. Replenish vitamin D deficiency
People who are deficient in vitamin D have an increased risk of developing dementia.
You can increase your vitamin D content by sun exposure and by introducing foods with a high concentration of this vitamin into your dietary protocol. Taking dietary supplements will also prove to be a useful strategy.
7. Ensure oral health
Taking care of your teeth and gums will help protect your brain from degenerative processes.
There is a strong link between poor oral hygiene and Alzheimer’s disease https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alzheimer%27s_disease. You need to brush your teeth at least 2 times a day. The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the brain, causing inflammation.
In addition to brushing your teeth, rinsing your mouth with coconut oil will also help.
8. Walk at least three times a week
Walking and cardiovascular exercises help improve brain function and thinking skills. Therefore, a regular walk can be considered the first step to a healthy and active brain.