According to natural health guru Dr. Andrew Weil, here are the top 7 ways to help prevent or lessen memory loss as we age:
- Add zing to your brainpower with foods and supplements.
- Challenge yourself. Evidence suggests that lifelong stimulation is the key to building and maintaining brain cells.
- Supplement with vitamins A, C and E. A study at Johns Hopkins University suggested that when taken together, the vitamins might slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
- Use a daily multivitamins that provides adequate levels of folic acid and other B-vitamins. They help the body reduce levels of homocysteine, an amino acid formed by the breakdown of animal protein. At elevated levels in the bloodstream, it has been linked with increased risks of Alzheimer’s.
- Use healing spices in your cooking: Turmeric, ginger and red pepper can add zing to meals and are all natural anti-inflammatories.
- Eat a diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids, including wild Alaskan salmon, sardines, freshly ground flaxseed and walnuts.
- Incorporate plenty of fresh organic fruits and vegetables in your meals.
- Reduce your intake of polyunsaturated vegetable oils (such as sunflower, corn and safflower oils), replacing them instead with a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil.
Source: Lancaster New Era, Jan 21, 2009
