Do you believe living a healthy lifestyle is enough to prevent dementia later in life? Unfortunately, the answer is no.
It’s true that being physically active, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help ward off the onset of memory loss and other symptoms associated with age-related cognitive decline. But research has found there are additional elements needed for an optimal approach to preventing dementia.
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In this blog post, we’ll explore what those components are and uncover some key strategies you can use to protect your brain and mental health as you age.
Dementia is becoming an increasingly common part of society as the population ages. It is a type of cognitive decline characterized by memory loss, difficulty carrying out everyday tasks and concentrating, communication issues, and mood changes.
Globally, dementia affects over 50 million people, which is expected to more than double by 2050. Collectively, dementia costs the global economy an estimated $818 billion per year, making it a major healthcare burden that continues to put an enormous strain on the lives of those affected directly or indirectly. As dementia affects those over 65 at a much higher rate than younger populations, it reflects the rapidly aging population of many countries across the world now and in the future.
A recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease has found that opportunities for a healthy lifestyle are unequally distributed. It was found socially disadvantaged individuals, such as those on low incomes, were associated with a higher risk of dementia.
For the study, researchers used data from more than 6,200 participants in the LIFE Adult study at the Leipzig Research Center for Civilization Diseases. All participants were between 40 and 79 years old and were not affected by dementia at the start of the study.
The large database enabled researchers to map a complex lifestyle index with twelve modifiable risk factors for dementia. These included hypertension, physical activity, smoking, obesity, and dietary habits.
Socio-economic factors such as occupational status, education, and household income were also considered for the results.
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It was found that differences in cognitive performance due to social inequalities were related to modifiable health and lifestyle factors for dementia. However, lifestyle factors only explained differences in mental performance due to socio-economic factors to a small extent. The study findings also suggest that most of the emphasis should be on social conditions. Researchers suggest that “lifestyle interventions could mitigate social inequalities in cognitive performance.”
Nutritional Support for Cognitive Function
Brain function is an important topic of discussion throughout life, and there are many factors that can take a toll on the ability of the brain to function at peak potential. This can affect memory, concentration, and overall brain function.
The Smart Pill can help to enhance cognitive function and memory through 9 ingredients that help to support, nourish, and maximize brain health. These include ginkgo biloba, huperzine A, bacopa extract, rosemary extract, and a B vitamin complex. The formulation of these ingredients is an excellent way to help fight free radicals, boost circulation, and provide nutritional support to assist with cognitive function.