Dementia: Dr Sara on benefits of being in nature
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Research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference highlighted how drinking certain beverages is associated with an increased risk of dementia. Dr Doug Brown said: “Dementia is one of the 21st century’s biggest killers, with one person developing the condition every three minutes. “With no way to slow down or cure dementia, risk reduction is critical.”
Dr Brown continued: “Excess sugar may increase our risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
“And all types of sugar – from fruit juice to lemonade – have the same impact.”
Drinking sugary drinks, such as fruit juice or lemonade, can heighten the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Poor blood glucose control, symbolic of type 2 diabetes, has also been identified as a risk factor for dementia.
Dr Brown added: “By cutting down on the fizzy drinks… we will be able to reduce our risk of developing dementia in later life.”
Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, the Alzheimer’s Society pointed out.
Risk factors, aside from a sugary diet, includes a lack of exercise, smoking, and drinking alcohol.
Isolation could also play a part in increasing a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
People with underlying health issues really need to do all that they can to manage their conditions effectively.
Those diagnosed with diabetes and heart problems are already at greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity also increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease after the age of 65.
In fact, looking after your health from mid-life onwards is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
Alzheimer’s disease – the symptoms
As brain cells become more and more damaged, the signs of dementia become more noticeable.
While everyone’s experience of the disease, and its progression, will be unique, there are commonalities to look out for.
For instance, memory issues will begin to impact day-to-day life.
To elaborate, a person with Alzheimer’s may get lost in familiar places, such as the supermarket.
Speech difficulties might develop, where the person affected by decaying brain cells is unable to follow a conversation.
Furthermore, you may find that the person affected will continuously repeat themselves.
“A person in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s will often have changes in their mood,” the charity added.
“They may become anxious, depressed or more easily annoyed.”
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