Lifestyle changes can delay or prevent late-life Alzheimer's, which affects people in their 80's and 90's - especially if the changes begin in midlife. Being physically fit is the most important factor in keeping the brain young. Being socially active and mentally engaged in new and challenging ways are two other factors. Moderate exercise increases the size of the shrinking hippocampus - the part of the brain responsible for forming memories. Exercise also maintains healthy blood flow to the brain - important because blood vessels make up one-third of the brain's volume. It seems you can't start to early to avoid late-life Alzheimer's.
Nutrition also helps prevent Alzheimer's. Because brain and heart health are very closely related, a heart-healthy diet is essential. Safflower and sunflower oils plus nuts and green vegetables are good sources of anti-oxidant-rich vitamin E, which significantly lowers Alzheimer's risk. Four ounces of fatty fish (lake trout, salmon, sardines, tuna) - eaten at least twice weekly - increase Omega-3 fatty acids, which aid mental function. Finally, the spice turmeric protects the brain and is thought partly responsible for the much lower rate of Alzheimer's in India. Considering Alzheimer's is the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S., think "newtrition".
A study published in the journal Neurology shows how nutrition affects our brain. The blood of 104 elderly volunteers was tested for a variety of nutrients. The volunteers were also given tests to measure memory and thinking abilities and 42 of them had MRI scans to measure brain size. Those who tested high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D (fish) plus vitamins C, E and B (vegetables) were less likely to have brain shrinkage and more likely to test well than those eating trans fats (margarine, packaged foods, baked goods, fast food). According to this, trans fats are a "brain drain".
However, flu shots don't increase Alzheimer's risk. There is no research showing an additive in the shot is responsible for difficulties with thought, memory and language. In fact, a Canadian study of more than 4,000 adults showed past exposure to several vaccines - including flu vaccine - was linked to reduced risk of Alzheimer's. Other research has shown getting an annual flu vaccine was linked to lower risk of death in the elderly. Annual flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older - but especially for those under 5 and over 50. Obviously, we should let our doctors "call the shots".
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