Dementia is incurable and rife – two factors that give rise to a palpable sense of hopelessness. However, there are proven ways to reduce the risk of dementia so not all hope is lost. A report conducted by the BMJ has singled out a specific food item that can slash the risk of Alzheimer’s disease – the most common type of dementia.
According to the report, oily fish can bolster the brain against decline.
The BMJ report explains: “Oily fish, which includes salmon, mackerel, herring, fresh tuna, and sardines, are the almost exclusive dietary source of the long chain n-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).”
Algal oil capsules provide a vegan source of DHA.
According to the BMJ, the brain is highly enriched in DHA, which constitutes 15 percent of brain lipids (fatty substances found in blood) compared with less than five percent in most other tissues.
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In a meta-analysis of 21 cohort studies, a 100 mg increment of dietary DHA was associated with lower risks of dementia.
Fish is also a source of multiple nutrients needed by the brain, including vitamin B12, selenium, and vitamin D, which may contribute to the observed cognitive benefits.
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“Thus, where possible, fish itself rather than fish oil supplements is recommended as a source of DHA,” advises the BMJ.
Other ways to reduce Alzheimer’s risk
Although it’s still unknown what triggers Alzheimer’s disease, several factors are known to increase your risk of developing the condition.
These include:
- Hearing loss
- Untreated depression (though depression can also be one of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease)
- Loneliness or social isolation
- A sedentary lifestyle.
Alzheimer’s disease – the symptoms to spot
The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease progress slowly over several years.
Sometimes these symptoms are confused with other conditions and may initially be put down to old age.
“In the early stages, the main symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is memory lapses,” explains the NHS.
For example, someone with early Alzheimer’s disease may:
- Forget about recent conversations or events
- Misplace items
- Forget the names of places and objects
- Have trouble thinking of the right word
- Ask questions repetitively
- Show poor judgement or find it harder to make decisions
- Become less flexible and more hesitant to try new things.
Source: Daily Express
