SPEAKER: Healthy habits
like these can lower your risk
for Alzheimer's and also boost
your quality of life
well into the future.
Eating a healthy diet
can lower inflammation that may
lead to Alzheimer's
and dementia.
Create a meal plan that includes
healthy fats, whole grains,
fruits, vegetables,
and lean protein.
Telomeres, which are caps of DNA
at the end of chromosomes,
become fragile as we age.
Over time, these telomeres
shorten and age our brain cells.
Even a few minutes of exercise
a day can protect against cell
damage.
Older adults should try to get
seven to nine hours of sleep
every night.
Your routine before it's time
to snooze matters too.
Stay away from screens at least
30 minutes before
bedtime, and use a device
to track your sleep habits.
Social isolation can release
stress hormones,
and long-term stress can speed
up memory loss.
More research is needed,
but stimulating activities
like board games with family
and friends may help lower
your risk.
Daily brushing and flossing
prevents cavities and gum
disease, but can it protect
against memory loss?
More research is needed,
but a small study found a link
between poor oral hygiene
and a higher risk
of Alzheimer's.
It has to do with bacteria
from your mouth
getting into your bloodstream.
It's important to keep
your stress level in check.
Long-term stress weakens
your immune system, which can
destroy pathways between brain
cells.