Ways to Lower Dementia Risk, According to Expert
A prominent dementia specialist has highlighted three lifestyle changes that can help decrease the likelihood of developing the disease.
During a segment on This Morning, Professor Catherine Mummery stated that nearly 45 percent of dementia cases could be preventable if individuals adopt certain changes in their lives.
With one in three people expected to be diagnosed with dementia at some point, it’s concerning to note that only a third of those affected currently have an official diagnosis.
This discussion follows the unfortunate news of Britain’s youngest dementia patient passing away at just 24 years old, two years after his diagnosis.
Listeners were taken aback when Professor Mummery suggested that managing blood pressure should be the starting point for monitoring dementia risk factors.
“Forty-five percent of dementia can be prevented if you properly adjust your risk factors,” she noted. “This is especially true with vascular dementia, where many issues stem from problems with blood vessels. What benefits your heart benefits your brain.”
She elaborated, “Managing factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking is crucial, as they’re detrimental not only to your heart but your brain as well.”
So, what specific changes should be made? Professor Mummery emphasized the importance of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and a nutritious diet in reducing the risk of various forms of dementia.
“Regular physical activity, like getting out of breath at least three times a week, is highly beneficial,” she explained.
“Mental exercise doesn’t need to be limited to brain games. It could be anything you enjoy that challenges you, that engages your mind.”
Moreover, she stressed the significance of a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fresh foods, while minimizing processed items and excess sugar.
“These practices combined will significantly assist in lowering the risk of all types of dementia, not just vascular,” she concluded.
Other recommendations from The Alzheimer’s Society include reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and effectively managing chronic health issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
