Introduction
Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there is no known cure, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease. One of the most important steps is to understand the #1 cause of Alzheimer’s, according to science. Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones can make a big difference in reducing your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. In this article, we’ll discuss the #1 cause of Alzheimer’s, according to science, and provide tips on how to eat this not that to reduce your risk.
The #1 Cause of Alzheimer’s, According to Science — Eat This Not That
Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that affects millions of people around the world. While there is no known cure, scientists have identified certain lifestyle factors that can increase the risk of developing the condition. One of the most important factors is diet.
A recent study published in the journal Neurology found that people who ate a diet high in saturated fat and processed foods were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than those who ate a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The study also found that people who ate a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates were more likely to develop the condition.
The findings suggest that eating a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals that can help protect the brain from damage. Additionally, avoiding processed foods and foods high in saturated fat can help reduce the risk of developing the condition.
Making healthy dietary choices is just one way to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Other lifestyle factors, such as getting regular exercise, managing stress, and getting enough sleep, can also help reduce the risk. By making small changes to your lifestyle, you can help protect your brain and reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
5.8 million Americans are currently suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease, a progressive memory loss disease, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—and that number is expected to triple by the year 2060 to 14 million. What exactly is it, what are the symptoms, and who is more likely to develop it? Here is everything you need to know about Alzheimer’s Disease—including the number one cause of the memory-impairing condition. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You May Have Already Had COVID.
The CDC explains that Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, a term used to describe “impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interferes with doing everyday activities.” In total, 60 to 80 percent of reported cases of dementia are Alzheimer’s.
It is caused by specific changes in the brain, in areas that control thought, memory and language. In short, Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, often beginning with mild memory loss—like forgetting recent events or conversations. “People with Alzheimer’s disease have changes in different aspects of their thinking abilities that eventually affect daily function, starting with complex tasks, but over time eventually affecting even basic tasks,” explains Richard Marottoli, MD, Yale Medicine geriatrician and professor of medicine at Yale School of Medicine.
Over time, memory continues to worsen, possibly to the point where an individual may lose their ability to carry on a conversation or respond to their environment. Other issues can include difficulty walking or talking or personality changes
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s generally appear after 60. Oftentimes, you may not know you have it, but others around you likely do, says Dr. Marrottoli. “Unfortunately, many people with Alzheimer’s disease have little or no insight into their deficits and that may put them at risk with safety issues. That’s why it’s important to involve family and friends in the process, both for diagnosis and management.” Memory problems are the primary symptom, but there are others, according to the CDC:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as getting lost in a familiar place or repeating questions.
- Trouble handling money and paying bills.
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure.
- Decreased or poor judgment.
- Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
- Changes in mood, personality, or behavior.
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Unfortunately, it still isn’t clear what causes Alzheimer’s. However, there are a number of risk factors.
- Age is the best known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, with the chances of developing it increasing as an individual gets older
- Family history is also a risk factor and researchers believe that genetics may play a role
- An unhealthy lifestyle may influence whether or not someone develops Alzheimers. According to two studies, lack of exercise, a poor diet, drinking too much alcohol and smoking may increase your chances of Alzheimer’s. adequate physical activity, a nutritious diet, limited alcohol consumption, and not smoking may help people.
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Dr. Marrottoli explains that while we know what’s happening in the brain, It still isn’t understood why. “Consequently, there’s no single cause, at least that we’re aware of yet,” he says. Age is the best known risk factor, but everyone grows older. Other than that, family history is the most influential factor. “Having a first-degree relative with Alzheimer’s disease increases the risk of developing it by 10 to 30 percent,” the CDC explains. However, they also point out that genes do not equal destiny.
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Adopting a healthy lifestyle may help reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. As previously mentioned, there is scientific evidence that exercise, a healthy diet, limited alcohol consumption, and not smoking may decrease your chances of developing the condition. Currently researchers are also studying whether education, diet, and environment play a role.
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There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease and treatment is focused on improving quality of life by helping people maintain brain health, managing behavioral symptoms, and slowing or delaying symptoms of the disease.
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If you experience any Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider. “Notify your primary clinician for an initial evaluation to determine the extent of the problem and to check for possible contributing factors. In some circumstances, referral to a more specialized dementia center may be warranted,” says Dr. Marrottolia. Detecting the disease as early as possible can be helpful in planning for the future and creating an effective treatment plan. And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.