[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Dementia is a general term that describes a set of symptoms that includes memory loss, thinking and problem–solving difficulties and difficulties in communication through the use of language.
Dementia increases with age but it is not part of the normal process of aging. Dementia describes two or more symptoms that are severe enough to affect daily activities.
Minor cognitive impairment is a normal part of aging, for example slightly poorer short-term memory.
Causes of dementia
Most cases of dementia are caused by neurodegenerative disease. Other causes would include vascular disease like strokes, head injuries and brain tumours.
Symptoms of dementia
Recent memory loss that may not be noticed by the person with dementia but is noticed by others is one possible symptom of dementia. Disorientation, communication problems, inability to complete familiar tasks, mood changes, personality changes and loss of initiative are some other problems of dementia.
Reducing risks of dementia
Leading a brain-healthy lifestyle may either slow down or prevent symptoms of dementia. Research has shown that simple lifestyle choices may prevent or delay the onset of dementia.
Reduce risks of Dementia
Here are some ways to reduce these risks of dementia.
Regular Exercise
Exercise lasting at least 150 minutes a week may reduce the risks of dementia or delay its deterioration. Activities like walking and swimming are good for those who are beginners to exercise.
Mental Stimulation
Mental training sessions involving memory, reasoning or speed of processing, memorizing lists, detecting number patterns and using a touch-screen program help seniors to improve their cognitive function in their daily activities. Continued learning of new things, playing strategy games and doing brain teasers can keep one mentally competent.
Stress Management
Stress needs to be well managed as it has detrimental effects on memory and it prevents nerve cell growth which increases risk of dementia. Include in your daily routine pockets of time for relaxation and laughter.
Social Engagement
Being more socially connected and engaged helps one to improve memory and cognition. In-person, face-to-face interaction is the ideal situation. As we age, it is important that we keep our social support system by developing new friendships for example through volunteering, joining a club, participating in activities in the community center, taking group classes, connecting with friends and getting out of the house where possible.
Stop Smoking
Smoking increases risks of strokes and this is one of the causes of dementia. Smoking cessation improves the circulation in the brain.
Reduce heavy alcohol consumption
When heavy alcohol consumption is curbed, the risk of Alzheimer’s is reduced together with brain aging.
Control blood pressure and cholesterol levels
By asserting control over the blood pressure and cholesterol levels, the risk of strokes will be reduced, hence reducing risks of dementia.
Reduce Obesity
A study has shown that those who are obese in midlife have three times the risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease in later life.
Have quality sleep
Poor sleep may be associated with higher levels of beta-amyloid that affects deep sleep which is necessary for memory formation. Other studies have shown that undisturbed sleep is essential for expelling toxins from the brain. Nightly sleep deprivation slows thinking and affects mood. This in turn increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease. An adult requires eight hours of sleep per night to be productive and creative.
If you are having problems with your sleep, you may want to consider NatureNip’s Lullaby for Sweet Slumber to provide you an all natural non-addictive sleeping aid. For best effects, take it an hour before bedtime.
Have a Healthy Diet
Inflammation and insulin resistance in Alzheimer’s Disease can affect the signal processing in the brain. Healthy eating can help to reduce inflammation. A diet of vegetables especially green leafy and cruciferous vegetables like brocoli, whole grains, fish especially salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel and sardines, beans, olive oil, ginger, green tea, blueberries and other dark berries.
Some supplements like fish oil, folic acid, vitamin B12, Vitamin D, resveratrol, lycopene and curcumin may help to prevent dementia. A study done with resveratrol given to elderly people with Alzheimer’s Disease showed that it was safe to use in the elderly and it may stabilize the disease, improving daily living activities. Studies have shown that lycopene inhibits the formation of oxidant-producing beta amyloid proteins in Alzheimer’s Disease.
Oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s Disease leads to the destruction of neurons especially in the memory processing area of the brain. Curcumin found in turmeric may help to block beta amyloid proteins that form plaques that destroy neurons in Alzheimer’s Disease. A study has showed that middle aged and elderly people who took a capsule of curcumin thrice a day had improved memories compared to those who did not. In countries like India where turmeric is commonly used in the cooking, the elderly have better cognitive function and lower rates of dementia.
If you are considering taking resveratrol, lycopene and /or curcumin supplements, then let NatureNip’s GMP certified carefully sourced Grape Elixir, Tomato Essence and Tumeric Tonic help you to delay or prevent the onset of dementia.
Please note: Naturenip does not consider Lullaby for Sweet Slumber to be a cure for insomnia and anxiety. This article is based on published research and expert opinions in the public domain.
Please check with your doctor if in doubt or if you are currently on treatment or pregnant or lactating. Do not mix Lullaby for Sweet Slumber with any prescriptive sedative medication that you are currently taking.
Do not take Lullaby for Sweet Slumber when operating machinery or whilst driving. Achieving natural sleep normally is the ultimate goal. NatureNip does not consider Grape Elixir, Tomato Essence and Tumeric Tonic to be a cure for dementia and any current medication for dementia should be continued. Please check with your doctor if in doubt or if you are currently on treatment or pregnant or lactating.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]