How to reduce your Alzheimer’s risk

We all know walking is an excellent form of exercise: lowering the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
In a recent study, Cambridge scientists have found a blood-pumping walk throughout the week may significantly reduce the onset of Alzheimer’s.

“The important message is that there are aspects of healthy life which reduce risk…This doesn’t say we can prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s altogether. But there is a proportion which is preventable. Even just having a vigorous walk a few times a week, and ideally make it social event,” says Professor Carol Brayne, from Cambridge University’s Institute of Public Health.

Dr Doug Brown, of the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK notes, “This valuable study adds to a growing body of evidence strongly suggesting that simple lifestyle changes can help lower our risk of developing dementia. Regular exercise is a good place to start, as well as avoiding smoking and eating a Mediterranean diet.”

Despite the incredible benefits of walking, in 2012, The Heart Foundation Australia reported that over a third of females in Australia aged 15 and over have low levels of exercise – accounting for 3.1 million women who aren’t getting their recommended 2 1Ž2 hours of moderate exercise each week.

The best way to get moving? Increase your everyday incidental activity:
· Jump off the bus earlier and walk 15 minutes to your destination.
· Take the stairs, rather than the escalator or lift.
· Walk to and from local coffee dates with friends (they’ll forgive you for turning up in sneakers!). They may even join you!