8 habits that can combat Alzheimer’s

While the exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease are unknown, research suggests our diet can help. Here's eight ways nutrition and new habits could help combat Alzheimer’s.

• Most researchers discount a connection between aluminum and Alzheimer's.
• Higher aluminum levels in the Alzheimer's brain, however, worsens the condition.
• Patients should avoid taking antacids with aluminum or using aluminum cookware.

• Researchers are studying the role of folate in lowering risk of Alzheimer's.
• This vitamin helps regulate blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid, high levels of which may play a part in the development of the disease.
• Vitamins B6 and B12 help regulate homocysteine levels.
• People with high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure are also at increased risk. Taking some cholesterol-lowering drugs has been shown to reduce the risk.

• The brain is rich in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid. It's found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, herring and sardines.
• Low levels of DHA have been associated with Alzheimer's.

• Antioxidants could be possible Alzheimer's preventives because it destroys free radicals.
• However, researchers have found that people who had high intakes of vitamins C, E and beta carotene did not reduce their risk.

• Studies have been inconclusive, but some nutritionists feel that foods high in lecithin and choline may help.
• Foods with lecithin and choline include egg yolks, organ meats, soy products, peanuts, wheat germ and whole grains.

Monitor nutrition carefully. As the disease progresses, patients may forget to eat, or only eat their favourite foods. They need nutritionally balanced meals.

• Even in small amounts, alcohol destroys brain cells and interacts with antidepressants, sedatives and other medications prescribed for Alzheimer's patients.
• It's a good idea to avoid all alcohol.

Evidence is accumulating for the "use it or lose it" theory of reducing Alzheimer's risk. People who exercise their brains with education, puzzles, games and museum visits seem to be less sensitive to brain damage.

While new research is constantly being published about Alzheimer's, there are many ways our habits could help stave it off. Eat right and keep your brain active, it may decrease your chances of suffering from this condition.