Dusseldorf - Regular exercise and social contacts can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease, according to Germany's Alzheimer's Research Initiative (AFI). The progressive brain disease, which primarily affects elderly people, slowly destroys memory and thinking skills.
According to the AFI, as little as 30 minutes of exercise daily lowers the risk of developing the disease and elderly people who attend callisthenics, yoga or dancing classes also make new acquaintances, which likewise lowers the risk.
The AFI says that international studies also show that a Mediterranean-style diet and mental training also help prevent the disease.
Inhabitants of Mediterranean countries develop Alzheimer's comparatively infrequently, which seems to be due to their diet. However, the AFI points out that isolated dietary changes - such as eating more fruit - have little effect. Studies suggest that only a complete Mediterranean diet guards against the disease.
The AFI also notes the importance of exercising the brain. This causes the formation of new synapses, the junctions between neurons, or brain cells. The result is a better functioning brain. It therefore advises elderly people to play cards, regularly read the newspaper, play a musical instrument, occasionally memorize a poem or attend classes to further their education.
Another way to exercise the brain is for right-handed people to use their left hand more often, and for left-handers to use their right.
