9 Everyday Habits That Might Lead to Dementia, Say Experts — Eat This Not That

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By Ghuman

Introduction

As we age, it is important to be aware of our everyday habits and how they may affect our health. Recent research has suggested that certain everyday habits may increase the risk of developing dementia. In this article, we will explore 9 everyday habits that experts say may lead to dementia. We will also discuss how to make healthier choices to reduce the risk of developing dementia. Eating the right foods is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk of dementia. We will provide some tips on what to eat and what to avoid to help you make healthier choices.

9 Everyday Habits That Might Lead to Dementia, Say Experts — Eat This Not That

Dementia is a devastating condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there is no known cure, experts agree that certain lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of developing dementia. Here are nine everyday habits that might lead to dementia, according to experts.

1. Eating a Poor Diet

Eating a poor diet can increase your risk of developing dementia. Eating a diet high in processed foods, saturated fats, and sugar can lead to inflammation in the brain, which can damage brain cells and lead to cognitive decline. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help protect your brain health.

2. Not Exercising Regularly

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining good brain health. Exercise helps to increase blood flow to the brain, which can help protect against cognitive decline. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days a week.

3. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining good brain health. Not getting enough sleep can lead to cognitive decline and increase the risk of developing dementia. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

4. Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for developing dementia. Smoking can damage the brain and increase the risk of cognitive decline. If you smoke, it’s important to quit as soon as possible.

5. Drinking Too Much Alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of developing dementia. Heavy drinking can damage brain cells and lead to cognitive decline. It’s important to drink in moderation and avoid binge drinking.

6. Not Socializing Enough

Socializing is important for maintaining good brain health. Staying socially active can help protect against cognitive decline and reduce the risk of developing dementia. Aim to stay socially active by spending time with friends and family, joining a club, or volunteering.

7. Not Challenging Your Brain

Challenging your brain is essential for maintaining good brain health. Doing activities such as reading, playing games, or learning a new skill can help protect against cognitive decline and reduce the risk of developing dementia.

8. Not Managing Stress

Stress can have a negative impact on brain health. Not managing stress can lead to cognitive decline and increase the risk of developing dementia. It’s important to find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or talking to a therapist.

9. Not Taking Medications as Prescribed

Not taking medications as prescribed can increase the risk of developing dementia. It’s important to take medications as prescribed by your doctor to help protect against cognitive decline.

By making small changes to your lifestyle, you can help reduce your risk of developing dementia. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, staying socially active, challenging your brain, managing stress, and taking medications as prescribed can all help protect your brain health.

“Growing evidence indicates that people can reduce their risk of cognitive decline by adopting key lifestyle habits,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. “When possible, combine these habits to achieve maximum benefit for the brain and body. Start now. It’s never too late or too early to incorporate healthy habits.” Read on—Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You May Have Already Had COVID.

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“Eat a healthy and balanced diet that is lower in fat and higher in vegetables and fruit to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. “Although research on diet and cognitive function is limited, certain diets, including Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to risk reduction.”

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“Some studies link a history of depression with increased risk of cognitive decline, so seek medical treatment if you have symptoms of depression, anxiety or other mental health concerns,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. “Also, try to manage stress.”

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This one is hard to do during the pandemic, but it’s important. “Staying socially engaged may support brain health. Pursue social activities that are meaningful to you. Find ways to be part of your local community — if you love animals, consider volunteering at a local shelter. If you enjoy singing, join a local choir or help at an after-school program. Or, just share activities with friends and family,” advises the Alzheimer’s Association.

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“Formal education in any stage of life will help reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. “For example, take a class at a local college, community center or online.”

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“Evidence shows that risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke — obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes — negatively impact your cognitive health,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. “Take care of your heart, and your brain just might follow.” Don’t smoke either.

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“Brain injury can raise your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Wear a seat belt, use a helmet when playing contact sports or riding a bike, and take steps to prevent falls,” says the Alzheimer’s Association.

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“Not getting enough sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea may result in problems with memory and thinking,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. 

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“Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise that elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and body,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. “Several studies have found an association between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline.”

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“Challenge and activate your mind. Build a piece of furniture. Complete a jigsaw puzzle. Do something artistic. Play games, such as bridge, that make you think strategically,” says the Alzheimer’s Association. “Challenging your mind may have short and long-term benefits for your brain.” And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.

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