Research shows how lifestyle changes can prevent Alzheimer's disease

• Changes in lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
• Physical activity, including walking, is beneficial for the brain.
• The APOE4 gene increases the risk of developing the disease, but lifestyle changes can help mitigate this risk.

New research emphasizes that changes in lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. As is known, this form of dementia affects nearly 7 million Americans, and this number may increase over the next 25 years.

Two new studies, presented at the recent Alzheimer's Association conference, highlight the importance of physical activity and diet. One of the studies showed that walking promotes the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports healthy brain cells.

According to Professor of Neuroscience Cindy Barghy, BDNF is similar to fertilizer for the brain, which is produced during physical activity. Walking is particularly beneficial for people with the genetic variant APOE4, which increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

The research involved 2985 adults, who were tested for the presence of the APOE variant. The results indicated that in people with this gene, the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease was 12 times higher than in those who did not have the variant. At the same time, walking was associated with a 10% improvement in cognitive functions.

The second study, conducted in Finland, found that a combination of lifestyle changes, including physical exercise and cognitive training, may be particularly beneficial for people with APOE4. The research involved 2469 participants and showed that the risk of developing dementia could be reduced through active lifestyle choices.

Researchers hope that further studies will clarify when changes in lifestyle can have the greatest effects. Experts emphasize that physical activity and healthy eating may reduce the risk of cognitive decline even in people with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease.

Tags: Well-being/Research