Alzheimer’s News

Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) News

Six controllable, healthy, lifestyle habits were identified which, when incorporated into a person’s routine, could result in a 60% reduction in the risk for developing Alzheimer’s Disease. They are

1. Exercising regularly; that is exercising a minimum of 150 minutes a week – 30 minutes on each of five days, by biking, walking, swimming, gardening or doing yard work
2. Eating healthier-such as the Mediterranean Diet, or a high-quality diet of mostly vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, seafood, poultry and olive oil while avoiding red meats, butter, cheese, pastries, sweets and fried foods
3. Lower Alcohol consumption such as limiting yourself to one glass of wine per day
4. Engagement in cognitive stimulating activities such as reading the newspaper or a book, playing games such as checkers, chess, or a crossword puzzle
5. Refrain from smoking
6. “Good Sleep” 7-8 hours, which is uninterrupted or non-segmented sleep each night. Sleep is restorative, a time when one’s brain is cleansed. If all six habits are not developed together, a 10% reduction in risk can still be expected for each habit incorporated into your lifestyle.

Submitted by Joyce Ruiz