Dementia is preventable through lifestyle. Start now. | Max Lugavere | TEDxVeniceBeach

Recent questions

• How does diet impact brain health?

  Diet plays a significant role in brain health, with research indicating that nutrient-dense foods like dark, leafy greens, eggs, and grass-fed red meat can support brain health and energy production. The modern diet, based on processed foods and grains, contributes to inflammation and accelerates brain aging. Additionally, the brain's ability to use fat for fuel is crucial, and a diet high in fat can be beneficial for brain health. Consuming high-starch and high-sugar modern fruits may have detrimental effects on the brain, while nutrient-rich foods like eggs and red meat provide essential nutrients for brain development and function.

• Can dementia be prevented?

  Research suggests that dementia and Alzheimer's disease are potentially preventable. The FINGER study led by Dr. Miia Kivipelto demonstrated significant improvements in executive function and processing speed through dietary and lifestyle interventions, emphasizing the importance of brain health maintenance. Making dietary choices that include nutrient-dense foods, avoiding processed foods, and following a diet high in healthy fats can help reduce the risk of developing neurological diseases like Alzheimer's. Additionally, maintaining a low insulin state through practices like intermittent fasting can benefit brain health and potentially prevent dementia.

• What role does fat play in brain health?

  Fat plays a crucial role in brain health, as the brain's ability to use fat for fuel is essential. A diet high in healthy fats can be beneficial for brain health, supporting energy production and overall cognitive function. Avocados, for example, contain fat-protecting antioxidants that are vital for the brain's structure. Cooked meat, rich in essential nutrients like DHA fat, played a significant role in brain growth during human evolution. Consuming fats from sources like olive oil, eggs, and grass-fed red meat can support brain health and contribute to optimal cognitive function.

• How does Alzheimer's disease affect older adults?

  Alzheimer's disease has a high likelihood of affecting individuals over 85, with a 50% chance of diagnosis. While dementia is not a normal aspect of aging, older adults are at increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Research indicates that dietary choices can play a significant role in brain health and impact the risk of developing neurological diseases like Alzheimer's. Consuming nutrient-dense foods and avoiding processed foods can help support brain health and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's in older adults.

• Are Millennials at risk of dementia?

  Millennials are at risk of dementia as they age, with Alzheimer's drug trials having a high failure rate. While dementia is often associated with older age, research suggests that cognitive decline can begin in the brain decades before symptoms appear. Making proactive lifestyle choices, such as following a diet high in healthy fats and nutrient-dense foods, can help support brain health and potentially reduce the risk of dementia as Millennials age. Additionally, avoiding processed foods and high-starch, high-sugar fruits can contribute to maintaining cognitive function and reducing the risk of neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.