Research was conducted at Washington University and the Group Health Centre in Seattle, USA. Dr Eric Larson, the center’s director, said, “Everyone had expected the earliest signs of dementia would be subtle cognitive changes. We were surprised to find that physical changes can precede declines in thinking.” He added that what is considered a brain disease may be intimately connected to physical fitness.

Previous studies have shown that people who exercise regularly are less likely to develop the condition. It has been thought that better cardiovascular fitness is beneficial to the brain and this new study supports this idea: that regular exercise may help stave off dementia by improving and maintaining physical conditioning.

“These results suggest that in ageing, there’s a close link between the mind and body,” said Dr Larson. “Physical and mental performance may go hand in hand, and anything you can do to improve one is likely to improve the other.”

Seven effective ways to avoid Alzheimer’s

1. Drinking apple juice improves the production of a chemical in the brain that helps with learning, memory and muscle movement.

2. Eating one teaspoon of cinnamon a day blocks the production of a protein that contributes to Alzheimer’s.

3. Coffee is an anti-inflammatory that can block cholesterol in the brain, so drink three to five cups a day.

4. Being social can increase cognitive abilities by 100 percent.

5. The health of your eyes is a good indicator of how well the brain is functioning. Conserving eye health can cut your risk by 63 percent.

6. Meditation helps to lower blood pressure and stress, increasing blood flow to the brain.

7. A Mediterranean diet is rich in leafy greens: fish, root, nuts and a little wine can cut your dementia risk in half.

Studies show that the best way to keep your mind in shape is to start by keeping your physical body in shape. At Metamorphosis Pilates and Fitness we offer Classical Pilates, Yoga and cardio classes. All three require some concentration, which keeps the brain stimulated, are very social and carry more oxygen directly to the brain. Yoga includes some meditation. These are all mind/body movement classes and are extremely beneficial to the body as a whole. Our clientele is a wide variety of ages, gender, fitness levels and fitness goals. We cater to your personal needs and interests while honoring safety and quality of instruction. Our customers appreciate the personal interest taken in them and simplicity of payments. We never ask you to sign a contract or charge you a membership fee.

Ref: www.nhne.org, www.foxnews.com