These days, we come to hear about many types of health problems and one of them is dementia. It is a neuro-degenerative disease that affects a person's thinking, behaviour and memory.
According to a WHO report, there are over 55 million people living with dementia worldwide and a new case is developing every 3 seconds. It is the seventh leading cause of death globally.
One may not take this mental problem too seriously, but it can actually prove to be fatal. Generally, people resort to various types of medicines for this. However, if onr makes some changes in their lifestyle, it can reduce the risk of dementia to a great extent.
Live stress-free
Stress has a direct effect on your psyche. When a person is highly stressed or depressed, he or she is at increased risk of developing dementia. So, try to keep yourself relaxed to avoid such situations. Also, try doing relaxation techniques like meditation.
Maintain weight
One easy way to avoid dementia is to maintain your weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, both health problems are related to dementia. In such a situation, the risk of obesity and dementia can be kept away through the consumption of a balanced diet. Include fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, pulses and whole grains in your diet. As far as possible, try to avoid junk, processed and packaged foods.
Exercise daily
Lack of physical activity also makes you more likely to get heart disease, be overweight or obese. Since all these problems increase the risk of dementia, make it a routine to exercise. Older adults who fail to exercise regularly may face memory problems later in life. It is not necessary to do intense workouts, but try to keep yourself physically active through brisk walking, cycling or dancing.
Avoid alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to stroke, heart disease and cancer. Not only this, excessive consumption of alcohol affects the nervous system and brain due to which a person may suffer from dementia later on. So try not to consume alcohol and stay healthy.
Quit smoking
Smoking constricts blood vessels, raises blood pressure and puts you at higher risk of heart disease. Smoking is a risk factor for dementia. It also increases the risk of many serious life-threatening diseases in a person manifold.
Eat flavonoid-based food
What you are consuming in your diet has a huge impact on brain function. According to a research, eating foods with flavonoids can help in keeping the mind sharp. High-flavonoid foods include apples, blackberries, blueberries, celery, cherries, grapes, oranges, pears, peppers and strawberries. When it comes to preventing aging of your thinking skills, flavonoids act like powerhouses. Making simple dietary changes like this can help prevent cognitive decline.