13 Ways to Maintain Your Brain
Feed Your Mind to Prevent Disease
-- By Becky Hand, Licensed & Registered Dietitian
SparkPeople Sponsors help keep the site free!
Studies have shown that chronic, excessive stress may alter the brain structure. This makes the brain more susceptible to damage by free radicals in the body and can result in neuron damage. To manage stress, try practicing meditation, muscle relaxation, yoga, or T’ai chi. Talk to a mental health professional, or sign up for a stress management class.
11. Ginkgo Biloba
In the United States, Ginkgo Biloba is sold as a dietary supplement for memory enhancement. It is thought to protect the brain by reducing oxidation damage to the cells. Research has not shown Ginkgo Biloba to protect against Alzheimer’s disease, but it may help with very mild to moderate dementia. People with severe dementia showed no improvement when given Ginkgo Biloba. Most of the studies used between 120 milligrams to 240 milligrams daily. Discuss usage with your physician.
12. Weighty Issues
People are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease when a Body Mass Index of 20-27 is maintained.
Weight change is very common with those who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease:
- In the early stages of the disease, some gain more than 5% of their initial body weight.
- In the later stages, weight loss of 5%-10% is common. The risk of excessive weight loss increases with the severity of the disease.
13. Spice Up Your Life
The yellow spice turmeric may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This spice is used in Indian cuisine and is a major ingredient in curry powder. Sprinkle on potato soup, chicken soup, omelets, chicken entrees, veal, and cream sauces.
This is the only brain you’ve got. With some simple maintenance, it can perform as well as your body does for years to come.
