Cognitive decline is a significant issue people face as they get older. An Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis is debilitating and affects the quality of life and the ability to perform basic daily tasks. Type 3 diabetes is also a complication linked to Alzheimer’s when the brain’s neurons can no longer respond to insulin which is essential for memory and proper brain function. At Elite Personalized Medicine, we take a personalized and unique approach to treating brain health using the Dale Bredesen Protocol. This extensive treatment plan works to address the root cause of the disease. Keep reading to find out how to prevent cognitive decline and some treatment options to discuss with a healthcare professional:
1. Prioritize a healthy diet
Eating well doesn’t just help your brain function, but it can improve your overall health. Limiting the amount of sodium, saturated fat, red meat, and sugar reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions. A Mediterranean diet, focusing on plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and beans with some seafood, chicken, eggs, and dairy products, has been shown to help improve cognitive function because of its positive effects on cardiovascular health. Specifically, food high in nitrates, such as celery, beetroot, arugula, and spinach, are great for increasing levels of nitric oxide in the body, which has many benefits for blood flow and brain function. Remember to be aware of your portion sizes and drink lots of water throughout the day too! We can help you find a diet strategy with optimal nutrients that will work best for you with our health coaching services.
2. Engage in social and physical activities
Another way you can prevent cognitive decline is by staying physically active. Exercise helps to increase the body’s ability to produce the very important molecule we mentioned earlier called nitric oxide. It keeps blood vessels healthy and ensures proper blood flow to the brain. Walking is a great place to start! It can improve your mood, boost your energy and balance, as well as increase your brain’s metabolism (turning glucose into fuel). Besides physical activity, it’s important to keep up with social connections and remain active in the community. This ensures your cognitive health won’t atrophy as quickly and can result in improved memory. Think about joining a local exercise class, a community club or group, or volunteering!
3. Keep your mind active
Knowing how to prevent cognitive decline can start with something as simple as playing a mentally stimulating game, reading a book, or participating in a hobby or social activity. Learning a new skill could also help improve your thinking and cognitive functions! Other ways to keep your mind healthy include stress management, optimal sleep patterns, and hormone balance, all things that are included in our functional approach to your personalized treatment plan.
4. Consider IV therapy
NAD IV therapy, short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide therapy, has many benefits, including enhanced cognitive function, metabolism, and overall improved well-being. Protect your brain and give your body an anti-aging boost with this type of treatment! Our functional medicine practitioners are here to walk you through how it works and answer your questions.
5. Get extra support from supplements
We offer high-quality supplement products for added brain and cognitive support. Orthomega 820 is a high-concentration fish oil supplement that provides the necessary omega-3 fatty acids the body requires for healthy brain function and cognition. Advanced DHA is a formula high in Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) that promotes healthy cognitive function and nerve health for the aging brain. Membrin is another supplement designed to maintain optimal cognitive function, and Lithium Orotate supports brain health and also promotes a positive mood and sense of well-being. Cat’s Claw is a supplement with clinical data on the reduction of beta-amyloid plaque, which is connected to Alzheimer’s and dementia. Cognitive Aminos is formulated with necessary amino acids for healthy neurotransmitter activity. These amino acids are also known to provide support for better moods and mental clarity. Speak with us or talk to your healthcare provider about which supplements are right for you!
With these helpful tips on how to prevent cognitive decline in mind, contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you achieve your personal wellness goals!
