Ask an Arkansas Expert Library

Is there anything I can do to lower my chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease?

The best step you can take now is changing your lifestyle in a way that is consistent with other aspects of health: get plenty of exercise and watch your nutrition. Most data indicates that a heart-healthy lifestyle will also be a brain-healthy lifestyle. Diabetes, arterial plaques, and high-blood pressure all take heavy tolls on the brain; whether they directly lead to Alzheimer’s disease itself is not completely understood. But studies have shown correlations between its incidence and high-fat diets; and remember, the body converts excess carbs into fats, so a high-sugar diet is also a high-fat diet. The most well-documented preventative agents are NSAIDs: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; in particular, ibuprofen (AdvilTM, MotrinTM). Encouraging data also exist for a combination of vitamin E with vitamin C. Research is currently testing the potential benefits from Gingko, omega-3 fatty acids, and curcumin (a component of turmeric, a spice in most curried dishes).

Steven W. Barger

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