Preventing Alzheimer's: is it Possible?

Alzheimer's is one of the most feared family diseases throughout the world. Many families are finding that a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer's today and they're searching for a way to prevent the onset of the disease for themselves and their children.

Research shows that vitamin B12 may be beneficial in helping to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's by as much as 2 %. In a research study with 270 participants, blood was analyzed showing no evidence of dementia. The blood was also tested for levels of homocysteine, which is an amino acid that has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The participants in the study were tracked over a seven year period.

There is also a link between depression and Alzheimer's. Omega-3 fats are known to reduce depression, which can in-turn, help reduce the probability that you'll develop Alzheimer's. Vitamin D is also important to reducing depression and may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. In 2007 researchers at the University of Wisconsin uncovered strong links between low levels of vitamin D in Alzheimer's patients and poor outcomes on cognitive tests.

Vitamin D can help your mind stay "physically fit" and researchers have discovered that this is important to avoiding the development of Alzheimer's. It' also important to use your mind as much as possible, such as in doing crossword puzzles, Sudoku puzzles and other mind enhancing games.

It is also important to watch your blood pressure levels. Hypertension triggers heart and disease and stroke. Hypertension feeds a type of scarring found in the brain that has been linked to the development of Alzheimer's. Scarring can buildup in middle age and this can occur decades before the disease even occurs or starts to show itself.

According to Mercola.com, there are four major factors responsible for the nerve damage leading to Alzheimer's disease: insulin resistance, insufficient omega-3 fatty acids, aluminum toxicity and mercury toxicity. There is also a connection between Alzheimer's and obesity, especially increased belly fat, insulin resistance, elevated uric acid levels, heart disease and diabetes.