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Neuroscientist: 4 Habits to Reduce Alzheimer's Risk, Protect Brain
Business Insider • • health
Key Points:
- Dr. Gary Small, a neuroscientist specializing in Alzheimer's research, emphasizes that age is the biggest risk factor for Alzheimer's, but lifestyle choices like reducing midlife obesity can significantly lower the risk of cognitive decline.
- Small incorporates daily exercise, including walking, cycling, balance training, and strength exercises, to boost brain health, mood, and reduce fall risks as he ages.
- His diet focuses on balanced meals with healthy proteins and carbohydrates, favoring whole foods over ultraprocessed snacks, and he practices portion control by sharing meals to reduce calorie intake and inflammation.
- Prioritizing good sleep, Small uses techniques like box breathing and audiobooks to manage lighter sleep patterns common with aging, which helps reduce brain inflammation and clear harmful proteins linked to cognitive decline.
- Maintaining a positive mindset and managing stress are key to Small’s approach to healthy aging; he advises flexibility with lifestyle goals and acknowledges that genetics and age also play significant roles in dementia risk.
