A leading dementia expert, Professor Catherine Mummery, recently shared ways to lower the risk of developing dementia. She appeared on This Morning, discussing how about 45% of dementia cases could be prevented with three lifestyle changes.
At some point, one in three people may be diagnosed with dementia, and surprisingly, only one-third of those living with it have an official diagnosis, according to The Alzheimer’s Society.
Prof. Mummery emphasized the importance of monitoring risk factors. One shocking revelation was that checking your blood pressure can significantly impact dementia risks—especially vascular dementia, which is closely linked to heart health.
She noted, “What’s good for your heart is good for your brain.” Key factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes management play a crucial role. Controlling these can greatly reduce your risk.
But what are the changes we can make? Prof. Mummery identified three main areas:
Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise. Aim for at least three sessions a week. Getting out of breath is a good goal.
Mental Stimulation: This doesn’t have to be a complex brain game. Find activities that challenge you and that you enjoy. It could be anything new or engaging.
Healthy Eating: Focus on a diet rich in vegetables and fresh foods. Cut back on processed foods and sugar.
These three areas can collectively help in lowering the risk of any form of dementia.
Recent studies support her claims. A survey by the World Health Organization indicated that physical activity can decrease cognitive decline by up to 30%. Also, research shows that diets high in fruits and vegetables are linked to improved cognitive function (source: WHO).
In addition, other strategies suggested by The Alzheimer’s Society include limiting alcohol intake and avoiding smoking. Managing chronic health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes is crucial as well.
Adopting these changes might seem overwhelming, but taking small steps can lead to significant benefits for your brain health.
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Health, ITV, This Morning
