Neuroscientist Lisa Genova has revealed a range of factors that may help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Genova, who holds a PhD in neuroscience from Harvard University and is the author of best-selling books, explained that the risk of developing Alzheimer's is not related to just one factor, but is the result of an interaction between the genes a person inherits from their parents and the daily habits they follow.
Genova said that "Alzheimer's is not an inevitable fate for most people's brains," noting that about 98% of people can influence their level of risk through their health choices.
She added that lifestyle factors, such as good sleep, a healthy diet, exercise, stress reduction, and learning new things, can have a significant impact on brain health.
The neuroscientist explained that many people ask her about the existence of a dietary supplement or medication that can be taken to avoid developing Alzheimer's, but she believes that adhering to these habits may be more effective than waiting for a preventative treatment that may be developed in the future.
What increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's?
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) explains that the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is still not fully understood, but there are factors believed to increase the likelihood of developing it, most notably:
Some lifestyle factors and conditions are associated with cardiovascular disease.
These factors include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels.
Alzheimer's is a progressive disease whose symptoms develop gradually over years and may affect a number of brain functions, according to the UK's National Health Service.
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) indicates that maintaining brain health can be linked to following a range of healthy habits, including:
Follow a balanced diet.
Engage in physical activity and maintain mental stimulation.
Lose weight when needed.
Reduce alcohol consumption.
Undergo regular medical check-ups as you get older.
Research also indicates that factors such as hearing loss, loneliness, and lack of movement may be associated with an increased risk of developing the disease, but this does not necessarily mean that they directly cause Alzheimer's.
