Want to protect your brain as you age? Neurologist Dr Arun Shah shares 3 lifestyle changes that may lower dementia risk
Hindustan Times • • health
Key Points:
- Dementia, characterized by cognitive decline affecting memory, communication, and daily functioning, is not a normal part of aging but results from brain abnormalities or damage, according to Dr. Arun Shah, Director of Neurosciences at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital.
- High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, and previous brain injury are significant risk factors that can damage blood vessels, reduce oxygen supply to the brain, and increase dementia risk.
- Smoking contributes to dementia risk by damaging blood vessel linings, increasing blood pressure, and causing oxidative stress and inflammation, which may also be linked to Alzheimer's disease.
- Maintaining metabolic health through controlling diabetes, obesity, and cholesterol is crucial, as these conditions affect vascular health and can lead to chronic oxygen deprivation in the brain.
- Dr. Shah recommends three main lifestyle changes to help prevent dementia: quitting smoking, controlling blood pressure, and adopting a balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and proper management of chronic conditions.
