Researchers have identified four crucial factors that can protect against developing dementia, a condition that affects memory and cognitive function.
Eating two and a half chicken breasts per day from mid-life onwards has been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of dementia. Getting enough protein is one of the key pillars of prevention, along with regular exercise, managing chronic health conditions, and maintaining strong social links with friends and family.
Frailty, a medical term for individuals who struggle to recover from common health issues due to age-related factors, can be an early warning sign of dementia. Studies have found that those with a dementia diagnosis often show signs of frailty years before cognitive symptoms appear.
The researchers analyzed data from 30,000 Brits and Americans, finding that frailty increased the risk of subsequent dementia diagnosis by between 18 and 73%. The study’s authors suggest adhering to four pillars of prevention:
1. A healthy diet packed with muscle-building protein, with the NHS recommending 1-1.5g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
2. Regular exercise, such as 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, per week.
3. Ensuring chronic health conditions are adequately treated with medications.
4. Maintaining strong social links, which can help boost mental health and well-being.
While the study’s findings are promising, experts emphasize that frailty may not be a direct cause of dementia, but rather a biological warning sign. The researchers acknowledge some limitations in their study, including the inability to account for genetic risk factors.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14161367/four-factors-protect-dementia.html