The Science of Aging

I was watching some of HBO's Alzheimer's Project documentaries today. Having had a granfather who suffered from the disease, I was rather interested in learning more about the whole subject.

Here are a few things you should know.

Exercise is good for your brain. Alzheimer's is caused by a build-up of Amyloid Beta protein in the brain. One way to help your brain clear out this protein is through exercise. It seems that it's just good for your brain in general: it stimulates some chemical that clears away the Amyloid Beta. Of course, thirty minutes of exercise a day also helps guard against diabetes. A healthy diet (low sugar, low bad-fat, low salt) also helps. All those things that are bad for your arteries make it tougher for your brain to clear away the Amyloid Beta. You see, all these health risks tie in together. So, exercise and eat right.

Also, people with more friends have brains that are better able to remember things the older they get. The less stress you experience (or maybe, the less you stress out) also helps your brain as you get older.

All of this was rather heartening. I do not have to experience my grandfather's fate. There are things I can do about it. There are things my parents can do about it. I recommend watching the shows if you have the opportunity.