Steps that May Minimize the Risk and Severity of Dementia Don't panic. That's my initial response to this question from an HSI member named Clarissa. "So, if one were say 68 years old and has begun to inexplicably lose weight, then is there anything to do to prevent the onset of dementia knowing that the weight loss may be an early warning sign?" Clarissa is referring to a Mayo Clinic study I recently told you about in which researchers concluded that unexplained weight loss in middle-aged women might be linked to a higher risk of dementia later in life. Until further studies verify the Mayo findings (and, hopefully, explain the mechanism behind this link) this should be regarded only as a potential red flag, not a warning bell. That said, there are three steps that may minimize the risk and severity of dementia: - Exercise
Two studies conducted by researchers at the University of Washington showed that subjects who were the least physically active were about three times more likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer's disease when compared to subjects who were most active - Niacin intake
According to a study from Chicago's Rush Institute for Healthy Aging, high levels of dietary niacin may significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline (Niacin is most abundant in high-protein foods such as beef liver, peanuts, chicken, tuna and salmon.) - Sage works for some
Studies show that sage inhibits AChE, an enzyme that breaks down a chemical that's typically deficient in Alzheimer's disease patients
For more information about early detection and prevention of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, see the e-Alert "Early Warning" (6/5/06), which you can find at this link:
http://www.hsibaltimore.com/ealerts/ea200606/ea20060605.html
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