Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
17 December 2014 09:55
Living a healthy lifestyle could cut your risk of dementia by a third, claim leading health specialists.
You could reduce your risk of dementia by living a healthy lifestyle, according to leading medical experts.
There are five simple steps that people can take in a bid to reduce the risk of developing the condition, according to charity Age UK.
Lifestyle contributes to about 75% of cognitive decline - analysis of academic studies and data revealed. But the study found that men following the 5 steps were a third less likely to develop cognitive decline, and dementia, than those who didn't follow them.
The 5 factors and tips for achieving them
Taking regular exercise, maintaining a healthy bodyweight, abstaining from smoking, not drinking too much and eating a Mediterranean diet were the key factors observed in contributing to healthier living. Here are some tips on how to achieve them:
Healthy weight is registered as a 'healthy' body mass index (BMI) score - which is calculated by comparing height to weight. What's your BMI? There are many reasons to give up smoking - including the fact that after 10 years your chance of suffering lung cancer is half that of a smoker, according to the NHS. make a list of reasons to quit, make a plan to quit smoking and change your eating habits - just a few of the NHS tips for giving up smoking . The Med diet has long been linked with brain health - with researchers praising its whole grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, oils and fish. A holiday offers a perfect opportunity to eat the finest Mediterranean food - don't forget to arrange travel insurance or pre-existing medical travel insurance first. Exercise: NHS guidelines advise at least 150 minutes of weekly moderate-intensity exercise - such as cycling or fast walking. Low or moderate alcohol consumption: Charity Drinkaware says you can cut down on alcohol by replacing beers in the fridge with soft drinks, swapping cocktails for mocktails and large wine glasses for small.
What Age UK says
Charity director of Age UK Caroline Abrahams said there is still no cure or way to reverse dementia, but acknowledged the evidence shows "simple and effective ways" to reduce the risk of developing it.
She added that changes needed to keep our brains healthy are already proven to be good for the heart and overall health, so it is "common sense" for us all to try to build them into our lives.
"The sooner we start, the better our chance of having a healthy later life," she said.
07 June 2019
Get hitched without a hitch! Here are our top tips on how to choose your perfect wedding location abroad, covering everything from food to legalities.
[more...]
03 June 2019
Want to get into surfing but not sure where to go? Here's where you should be heading to get the best beginner waves around the world.
Heading to the showpiece event of women's football in France this summer? Here's everything you need to know about England's venues for France 2019.
Get more out of your smartphone when you go travelling by downloading these travel apps and make your trip easier at the touch of a button.
24 May 2019
Heading to the football in Baku but don't know what else to do? Explore the hip and trendy crossroad of Europe and the Middle East and experience the fast-growing phenomenon, Azerbaijan.
Two of London's top football teams head east in search of silverware on May 29. If you're heading to Baku for the final, here's our guide on what you need to know before you go...
17 May 2019
There's more to Monaco than the Grand Prix. Discover the magic of the Mediterranean principality with our guide to what you must see in Monaco.
15 May 2019
Are you heading to one of Europe's best music festivals this summer? Then make sure you read our top ten tips before you leave...
What makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special? From a royal guestlist to a challenging circuit, we take a look at why the Monte Carlo Formula 1 race is so prestigious...
Get inspired for a summer of music, travel and adventure with our guide to some of the best music festivals around Europe.
07 May 2019
Thinking of visiting Spain? There are some excellent reasons to explore the country this spring and summer, from football finals to eating snails - so don't miss out!
Want to learn a new language without the hassle of going to classes? Check out our guide to the best free apps on the market and get yourself holiday-ready in no time.