Boosting Brain Power and Banishing Alzheimer's

As we get older, our skin starts to sag a bit and the joints and muscles in our body begin to ache. In other words, we start to age. We can't stop the clock ticking away at our lives, but we can slow it down a bit. Being sensible about our health is a great way to not only slow down our biological clock, but also push back that potential to develop Alzheimer's disease or even halt it in its tracks. The key to it all is using our brains. Here are just a few ways to boost our brain power and banish Alzheimer's:

1. Be a mental case. Intellectual activities keep our brain cells firing. What is that saying "Use them or lose them?" The same applies in this particular instance. By keeping yourself mentally active, you have the capacity to not only develop new brain cells but also forge new neurological pathways between the nerves in your brain. In other words, you're keeping your brain awake. If you are retired, look into some adult continuing education classes at a local community college or library. Tackle a crossword puzzle or word games. Attend cultural events like plays and concerts.

2. Work on your social life. Numerous studies have shown for years that having great friends promotes a longer life. Involve yourself in social situations. Go to your neighborhood block party and meet new people. Have a hobby? Find a local group that enjoys the same things you do. Walking clubs and canasta or bunko groups are popular. Volunteer at your local food pantry or other community organization. Read or tell stories to elementary school children. Walk your pet or travel with friends.

3. Get moving. Physical activity is always a plus for boosting brain power. If you get the blood pumping, more oxygen feeds into your brain, giving you a natural "high." Besides, exercise improves your physical stamina! When you exercise, you are losing weight, lowering your blood pressure and chance of stroke. Take a chance and try for a gym membership. Access to various exercise classes like yoga, tai chi, and cardiovascular activity like aerobics helps with increasing brain power.

4. Lay off the junk food. A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps build brain cells. Lowering the fat and cholesterol in your diet not only lowers your chance of stroke or heart attack, but it lowers the chances of Alzheimer's. The term antioxidants has long been bandied about and touted as a protector of brain cells. Some fish and nuts are good for you as is dark, leafy vegetables. Visit a nutritionist to create the optimal eating plan for your lifestyle.

You always hear that life comes with no guarantees. The same applies to the various ways listed above to boost brain power. It doesn't matter if you are genetically predisposed to have Alzheimer's disease or not, maintaining a healthy active lifestyle never hurt anyone. In fact, following through this boosting brain power plan can even slow or halt the disease. So instead of thinking about whether you "might" get Alzheimer's, starting enjoying life and taking care of it.

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