A New Approach To Protecting Our Brains
Pillar #1 - Boost your brain
It’s like the story where the Emperor had no clothes. You’re pretending everything is ok but it’s not.
Losing your mind is a slow process. The part that really sucks is that you’re aware of it as it’s happening.
Depressing, right?
It's a cruel paradox where you get to watch the unraveling of your memory. As the threads of your thoughts begin to fray, it’s frustrating. That’s why people get angry.
The experiences that shaped your life, the relationships that defined you, and the things that make you, YOU are disappearing. You scramble to recall a word or someone’s name. You know it’s right there, just inside your mind, where you can’t get ahold of it.
One of my most profound fears is getting Alzheimer's. It’s a relentless, progressive form of dementia that destroys regions of the brain responsible for thought, language, and memory. Truly a sucky way to go.
The harsh reality is that, as of now, there are no drugs capable of reversing this disease. It might sound discouraging, but there is a glimmer of hope.
Change your lifestyle.
Enter the Four Pillars of Alzheimer's Prevention. These strategies are designed to support brain health. They help preserve the connections between your brain cells and connections to other people, and that keeps you healthier for longer.
Of the best things you can do is eat a brain-boosting diet.
Let’s start with what’s on your plate.
Food impacts your brain health. Think of it like fueling a high-performance car with the right gas. You want the good stuff.
Inflammation is the enemy.
Omega-3 fats come to the rescue by reducing inflammation. Fatty fish like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Healthy fats from avocados and nuts can also help your brain.
Colorful fruits and veggies are the stars of the show. They’re packed with antioxidants that can help protect your brain from oxidative stress. Antioxidants fight free radicals that damage brain cells and cause DNA damage and inflammation.
Berries are like little superheroes in this story. They’re great antioxidants.
Whole grains are your brain’s BFF. They provide a steady supply of energy, keeping your mind sharp throughout the day.
Sugar inflames your brain
So do processed foods. Alcohol has a ton of sugar, especially wine. You might think that a glass of wine helps you relax, but it’s really creating more inflammation and that’s eating away at your brain.
If you must drink, water is the best choice. Dehydration is bad for your entire body, including your brain.
If you make better choices, your brain has a better chance.
If you add in the other 3 pillars of Alzheimer's prevention, such as physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social engagement, you have a fighting chance.
Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia are tough to beat, but lots of people find ways to make the most of the moments they still have.
Instead of freaking out or getting angry, take care of your body and hope it slows things down.