alzheimer's

Of all of the fates that aging can bring, Alzheimer's disease — which afflicts 34 million people worldwide — is understandably one of the most feared. It's characterized by a mental deterioration that leaves the inflicted unrecognizable to family and friends, which is eventually accompanied by a swift physical decline. But are there steps we can take to avoid contracting Alzheimer's?

The Do diet: Some foods are proven to enhance memory, increase mental sharpness and even help ward off Alzheimer's.

A new study published in the June 8 online issue of the Neurology tells me something I already knew, but from a different angle. Older people who don’t exercise are at a greater risk for “silent strokes” that create small brain lesions over time and lead to impaired memory, increased risk of falls, and even dementia. If you engage in moderate exercise, however, you can reduce your risk of these silent strokes by about 40 percent.

Celery is often an afterthought, but it's time to give this nutritional veggie a starring role — it's packed with phytonutrients! Try it out in this delicious spring salad.

Forgetfulness and lack of focus aren't inevitable consequences of aging – with attention to diet and supplements, brain health can be maintained through the years.