Towards a simpler prevention of Alzheimer's
REGULAR exercise and a healthy diet could go a long way to reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, the latest research from Sweden suggests.
A study by Miia Kivipelto, a neurologist at the Gerontology Research Centre in Stockholm, showed that middle-aged people taking regular exercise at least twice a week could reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by 50 per cent in old age.
"An active lifestyle, both physical, mental and social, is preventive," Kivipelto told an Amsterdam conference organised by the UK Royal College of Psychiatrists. "It’s never too early to start to prevent Alzheimer’s disease."
An estimated 12 million people worldwide suffer from Alzheimer’s, which is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. There is no cure for the condition which robs people of their memory and mental ability, although some drugs are available which can alleviate symptoms for some patients.
Studies have shown that people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity could be running a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia. Kivipelto added that people could reduce the risk of developing the disease by going to their doctor for regular monitoring of these health factors.
From (thescotsman.scotsman.com)