Lifestyle Habits That Protect Your Brain From Alzheimer’s: Know From Doctor

Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent cause of dementia, gradually impairing memory, thinking, and behaviour. While age and heredity are established risk factors, physicians point out that the manner in which we live our everyday lives plays a significant role in safeguarding brain health. Studies indicate that small but regular daily habits, from diet and exercise to sleep and intellectual stimulation, can delay or even prevent Alzheimer's. The sooner these habits are developed, the more long-term protection they provide for the brain.

In the hectic times of today, when stress, poor diet, and poor sleep have become the order of the day, it is imperative to take deliberate steps towards maintaining the integrity of cognitive function. Doctors suggest that prevention need not begin with advanced age but much earlier, through daily routines that engage the brain, feed it, and make it resilient. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Amrut S D, Associate Consultant – Neurology, Manipal Hospital, Goa, shares how lifestyle habits protect the brain from Alzheimer's disease.

Lifestyle Habits That Prevent Alzheimer's Disease

The Role of Lifestyle In Brain Health

Healthy lifestyle practices can improve overall cognitive function, such as memory, learning, language,attention and others. Dr. Amrut S D states, “Regular physical activity reduces inflammation and promotes the growth of new neural connections.”

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Nutrition For Cognitive Support

A balanced diet, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, rich in antioxidants, supports brain health by lowering cholesterol and protecting against vascular damage.

Mental Stimulation And Cognitive Resilience

Activities like reading, puzzles, or learning new skills help strengthen neural pathways, which may delay symptoms.

Lifestyle Habits To Prevent Alzheimer's (Image Credis: Canva)

Sleep And Its Impact On The Brain

Sleep hygiene is essential, as poor sleep is linked to toxic amyloid plaque accumulation in the brain. Dr. Amrut S D says, “Managing chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity also plays a critical role in lowering risk.”

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Social Engagement And Stress Reduction

Additionally, social engagement and stress management reduce depression and isolation, both of which accelerate cognitive decline.

Even though lifestyle changes cannot completely prevent Alzheimer’s, they can significantly reduce risk and potentially delay its onset. Practising healthy habits, regular exercise, balanced diet, quality sleep, learning new language skills, hobbies, and social activity, creates a strong network for brain health, slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s and improving quality of life in later years.