Exercise May Be the Missing Link in the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease

According to an article in the November edition of tasteforlife magazine, there is a large amount of research involved in the study of the benefits of physical activity to slow or prevent Alzheimer's disease. The Alzheimer's Association advises people to exercise, stay socially active and engage in activities that create mental challenges.

Studies have been conducted to support the fact that the brain can be improved with physical exercise. Aerobic exercise which includes walking or bike riding have shown a significant improvement in strength, flexibility, balance and mental clarity in patients with the beginning symptoms of dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Most people can find a place to take a daily walk. Health clubs, spas and gyms have stationary bikes and treadmills to accommodate the elderly at little or no cost. Many communities have indoor malls and community parks or areas that offer a safe environment for walking.

A study of volunteers at the University of Washington School of Medicine and Veterans Affairs indicated that aerobic exercise among those studied had improved their mental agility, while the volunteers involved in lighter exercise, such as stretching and balance training, showed a continued decline in their speed of thinking and ability to speak fluently.

Studies are being conducted regarding the involvement of Omega - 3 fatty acids, diet, physical and mental activities as an important factor in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. Omega 3 fatty acids which are important for brain function may slow the effects of Alzheimer's but as yet, there is no concrete evidence of how it may help in the prevention of the disease.

Recent studies have demonstrated that proper nutrition and dietary supplements can help maintain a sharp memory. Soy flavones may improve working memory in young women and Vitamin C and E supplements has been shown to reduce memory loss in adults with type 2 diabetes.

To sharpen your memory and support other brain functions you should avoid salty and highly processed foods, lower your consumption of saturated fats and add fruit and vegetable extracts that are high in antioxidants. Consuming blueberries, concord grape juice, acai, v8 juice and v8 fusion are good ways to obtain low calorie antioxidants.

Sources : tasteforlife Magazine, November 2010 page 20
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