Dementia - Prevention

Diet
In general, a Mediterranean style diet (or mind diet) is recommended. This is easy to follow and has a variety of macro and micronutrients that are beneficial to the brain. Minimising sugar, saturated fat and processed foods are also recommended.

Sleep
There is evidence of a two-way relationship between poor sleep and dementia and research does suggest that chronically poor sleep may increase the risk of dementia developing. There can be many causes of sub-optimal sleep and these need to be addressed comprehensively.

Exercise
This is as critical for brain function as it is for other aspects of physical health, as well as mental health. Exercise improves vascular health and produces neurotrophins which are important for maintenance of brain health and neurogenesis - the growth of new nerve cells.

Social connection
Humans are inherently social beings, and when we feel isolated and lonely this can have a detrimental affect on many aspects of copying, including brain health. Much of this is driven by inflammation. It is important to make sure that you feel adequately connected to others.

Alcohol and other drugs
Excessive use of alcohol over a long period has clearly been shown to cause damage to the brain and may result in dementia.

Vascular health
The brain needs an adequate blood supply at all times and anything that compromises this can be a problem. It is important that things like BP, blood cholesterol and blood sugar are all adequately treated.

Hearing
Poor hearing is known to be a risk factor for the cognitive decline including dementia. It is often easily fixed and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Mental health
High levels of chronic stress as well as depression can impair brain function and health and may result in dementia if left untreated.