June marks Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, an opportunity to focus on the global impact of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. With over 55 million individuals affected worldwide, the subject is of pressing importance. Recently, Dr. Efrat Lamandre, popularly known as Dr. E, NP with a PhD, was invited to speak on ABC 22 – WJCL – Savannah, where she provided valuable insights into recognizing and addressing this neurodegenerative disease by keeping minds sharp.
Spotting the Early Signs
Dr. Lamandre began by discussing the early signs of Alzheimer’s, which are key to catching and managing the disease early. “One of the first things you might notice is memory slips, especially forgetting recent events or conversations, names of places, confusing dates or times, or asking the same questions repeatedly,” she explained.
Why does this matter for you? Recognizing these signs early on in yourself or your loved ones means you can start interventions sooner. This not only helps in managing the disease but also in planning for the future.
Lifestyle Changes to Fortify Your Brain
Dr. E was adamant that Alzheimer’s isn’t solely a genetic lottery – there are lifestyle changes you can make to decrease your risk. She shared four key strategies:
Healthy Eating Habits
Alzheimer’s is often referred to as type 3 diabetes, signifying a link between our diet and brain health. Opting for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is a step in the right direction.
Physical Activity
Exercise boosts more than just muscle strength; it’s also a tonic for the brain. A fascinating tidbit from Dr. E highlighted how walking and other forms of movement release BDNF, a chemical she likened to “miracle grow for your brain.”
Quality Sleep
Sleep isn’t just about rest; it’s a critical period for our brain to clear out toxins accumulated throughout the day. Aiming for seven to nine hours can do wonders for your cerebral well-being.
Mental Challenges
Keeping the brain stimulated is key. Whether it’s learning a new skill, language, or simply trying to recall your grocery list by memory, it’s about giving your brain a good workout.
One charming piece of advice Dr. E offered was a practical, everyday tip to challenge your memory: “The next time you go to the grocery store, write down your list, then put it in your pocket and try to memorize it and see if you can go through the store without looking at it again.” A simple, yet effective way to engage your brain.
Let’s Put This into Practice
Changing habits or adding new ones might seem like a tall order. But it’s the small steps that lead to big changes. Why not start with one of Dr. E’s tips? Maybe swap out a snack for a fruit or take a short walk around your neighborhood. Every little bit counts.
Remember, whether you’re worried about Alzheimer’s for yourself or someone you love, you’re not alone. There’s a whole community out here, armed with knowledge and ready to support you. And Dr. E’s tips? They’re a great place to start.