When we forget our keys, a name or why we went to the grocery store in the first place, we feel apprehensive that perhaps we are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Often this is not the case. However, we should take it as a reminder to set up for the future golden years, similar to the way we set up for cardiac health, bone density or a prevention program for Type 2 Diabetes. Here are the latest tips on how to avoid dementia:

• Eat plenty of spinach and blueberries
• Make sure that you are not deficient in folates or the B vitamins. Supplements don’t work as well as real food like: oranges, bananas, leafy green vegetables, asparagus, peas, beans and fortified bread.
• Exercise your body! Walking, aerobics, swimming, strength training. Make this a part of your daily regimen to stimulate your body and oxygenate your brain because it is all connected. Exercise improves brain function by aiding in controlling blood pressure and diabetes. Exercise will reduce brain shrinkage by enhancing connections between neurons and creating new pathways.
• Read, write, do crossword puzzles. In short, learn something new every day. You can learn a vocabulary word, start studying foreign language tapes, or revisit high school algebra and do problems.

Keep Active mentally, physically and spiritually and you will be healthier, happier and sharper.

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Debbie Mandel, MA is the author of Turn On Your Inner Light: Fitness for Body, Mind and Soul, a stress-reduction specialist, motivational speaker, a personal trainer and mind/body lecturer. She is the host of the weekly Turn On Your Inner Light Show on WGBB AM1240 in New York City , produces a weekly wellness newsletter, and has been featured on radio/ TV and print media.
To learn more visit: www.turnonyourinnerlight.com