A plant-based diet is one of the steps (Image: Pexels)
Health specialists from Harvard Medical School, one of the world’s leading institutions, have outlined six lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments, that could potentially lower the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, MS or stroke. The experts explained the concept of cognitive reserve and its correlation with reducing the risk of these conditions.
They described it as “your brain’s ability to improvise and find alternate ways of getting a job done. It reflects how agile your brain is in pulling in skills and capacities to solve problems and cope with challenges. Cognitive reserve is developed by a lifetime of education and curiosity”. This theory was first proposed in the late 1980s when researchers discovered individuals who, despite having brain changes consistent with advanced Alzheimer’s disease at autopsy, had shown no apparent symptoms of dementia.
This was attributed to their substantial cognitive reserve, which allowed them to compensate for the damage and maintain normal functioning.
The researchers said: “Since then, research has shown that people with greater cognitive reserve are better able to stave off symptoms of degenerative brain changes associated with dementia or other brain diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or a stroke. A more robust cognitive reserve can also help you function better for longer if you’re exposed to unexpected life events, such as stress, surgery, or toxins in the environment. Such circumstances demand extra effort from your brain – similar to requiring a car to engage another gear.”
There are various changes you can make (Image: Pexels)
Harvard Medical School experts outline six tactics to fortify your brain and ward off dementia, indicating good brain health isn’t achieved by quick fixes but through substantial lifestyle modifications. To make a real difference, these six “cornerstones” must be implemented collectively:
1. Eat a plant-based diet
2. Exercise regularly
3. Get enough sleep
4. Manage your stress
5. Nurture social contacts
6. Continue to challenge your brain
The researchers clarified: “These factors are equal parts of a cohesive plan – they don’t work in isolation. Simply eating more fibre or adding a morning walk to your routine isn’t enough to forestall mental decline. Instead, exercise, diet, sleep, stress management, social interaction, and mental stimulation work in concert to yield results.”
To delve deeper into the subject, consult ‘,’ a Special Health Report available from Harvard Medical School.