NCSF Blog

In recognition of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month we are investigating the different lifestyle factors that can have a positive impact on your brain health and relative risk for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease (AD) later in life. Previously discussed are various dietary factors that may have an impact on one’s risk, summarized below.

In recognition of Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month we will examine the impact of controllable lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise and cognitive/social stimulation on your risk for Alzheimer’s disease later in life.

Alzheimer's is a progressive disease where brain cells degenerate and die, which destroys memory and other important mental functions. As more and more brain cells die, it leads to significant brain shrinkage.

A major goal among older adults is to maintain their independence and ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Once daily tasks cannot be performed on one’s own, quality of life often begins to drastically fall. No one wants to rely on others to be dressed, bathed, get out of one’s favorite chair and get around town – so maintaining key elements of physical fitness such as muscular strength, power and endurance as well as balance, flexibility and coordination is crucial.

Obesity is still highly prevalent in the US – with 2016 state-by-state rates ranging from 20-36% – fitness professionals need to use every tool in their toolbox to provide beneficial exercise prescription and education for clients who need to lose significant weight. Obesity is directly associated with several debilitating diseases and early mortality; making it much more than an aesthetic issue. An individual looking to lose weight and keep off the pounds needs to engage in a comprehensive weight-loss strategy focused on increasing their metabolism.

Not all forms of inflammation are created alike - acute inflammation plays a central role in wound healing and immunological protection from infectious agents that can enter the body. Chronic, systemic inflammation can lead to various diseases and maladies including arthritis, metabolic syndrome, heart disease and even Alzheimer's.

According to one estimate, about 20% of adults in the US take glucosamine and about 10% take chondroitin. The cost of these and other non-vitamin supplements and herbal remedies is close to 15 billion dollars every year. These are popular supplements.

With Valentine’s Day upon us and love in the air - let’s take a quick moment to recall how to love our own hearts. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among men and women. What might come as a surprise is that many factors related to risk are actually modifiable. It is true that unavoidable elements such as your age, sex (males have a greater risk) and family history have a part to play, but every person still has control over various life habits which increase one’s risk for early progression of the disease. Show your heart some love by providing the care it deserves.

Most understand the potential benefits of a protein-rich diet for weight loss and the prevention of age-related reductions in muscle mass. Some dietary plans state that lean animal protein is the best way to go for optimal benefits as they contain all of the essential amino acids and purportedly provide a greater sensation of fullness (satiety). However, new research from the University of Copenhagen’s Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports suggests that meals based on legumes such as beans and peas can actually provide greater satiation following a meal than meats such as pork or veal.