Tips 4-7
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4. Think
"A healthy brain is also a stimulated brain," says Black. "It's an additional need of the brain as compared to other organs. That doesn't mean you have to do crosswords, if that's not what you like to do -- it may also mean having conversations with people. Stimulation can mean having a job that you care to do and that you do well. If your work isn't as stimulating, you need to pursue hobbies that keep your mind active." (Learn about 5 life-nurturing reasons to enjoy a hobby.)
5. Watch your blood pressure
High blood pressure is a proven risk factor for developing Alzheimer's disease, says Diamond. It's important to get your blood pressure checked regularly by your doctor and to stay on top of keeping it at a healthy level.
6. Eat a healthy diet
A brain-healthy diet follows the same pattern as a heart-healthy diet, according to Black: lots of fruits, veggies and whole grains, fish, good fats such as olive oil rather than saturated and trans fats, and lean meats -- although meat consumption should be kept to a minimum, she says.
7. Get your EFAs, folate and vitamins C and E
Various studies have linked lower incidence of Alzheimer's with higher intake of essential fatty acids (EFAs), folate and vitamins C and E. Although the results aren't conclusive, these are all things that are recommended in any healthy diet, so dig in! Take a multivitamin to supplement your healthy diet, and try to include food sources of EFAs, such as seeds (including hemp, flax, pumpkin and sunflower), walnuts, and fish and shellfish. You may also want to take a supplement if you feel you aren't getting enough EFAs from your diet.
For more information about Alzheimer's disease, visit www.alzheimer.ca, or speak to your doctor.
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