Five Steps to Fight Dementia

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The U.S. Alzheimer's Association has already started encouraging people to take steps to increase their "cognitive reserve."

According to the New Scientist, research suggests five areas where people can look to increase their brain power and stave off mental decline. All are unproven. They are:

• Stay alert: Mental activity increases the reserves of brain cells.
  
  
• Keep fit: Exercise may trigger the birth of new brain cells, and fitness strengthens the brain's executive functions.
  
  
• Minimize stress: People with a high level of "neuroticism" have an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
  
  
• Eat right: Cognitive decline may be slowed with a diet of mono and polyunsaturated fats, vitamin E, polyphenols and antioxidents. Saturated fat should be avoided.
  
  
• Stay sober: Alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs do not help.

Find out the risks, causes and symptoms of dementia.

Be aware of 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's disease.

Sharpen your wit with our Mental Health Insider.