As a naturopathic doctor, I love sharing research on prevention! Here’s a new study published recently on the CBC website that notes lifestyle adjustments that people can make to cut the risk of developing stroke, dementia or late life depression.
The numbers supporting prevention are impressive: previous research had shown that taking action could stop or slow at least 60 per cent of strokes, 45 per cent of dementia and 35 per cent of late-life depression.
The new research was conducted by the University Health Network in Toronto and looked at data from 59 studies to identify the risk factors.
Four preventative factors have an impact on brain-related conditions:
- Regular cognitive activities (such as reading or doing puzzles)
- Moderate or high levels of physical activity
- A feeling that your life has purpose
- Low to moderate alcohol intake (less than one drink a day)
Two additional factors decrease risk of developing a brain-related conditions:
- A diet high in vegetables, fruit, nuts and dairy (and reduced red meat, sugar and salt)
- Social engagement
Lifestyle changes can also help prevent eleven factors that increase the risk of the above brain conditions:
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Smoking
- High blood sugar
- Poor or disrupted sleep
- High body mass index
- Hearing loss
- Depressive symptoms
- General stress or stressful life events
- Pain
- High cholesterol
See the full article for more information:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/17-risk-factors-dementia-stroke-1.7521625
Prevention is part of my everyday work with patients, so If you have any of these conditions, I can help you create a plan to reduce or eliminate them. Contact me to set up an appointment.