Preventing Alzheimer's

     Research by Cyrus Raji, MD, PHD, physician-scientist in the department of radiology at the University of Pittsburgh should encourage all of us to put on our walking shoes.  In a study of 426 adults with or without cognitive decline, Raji found that those who walked at least six miles weekly were half as likely to develop Alzheimer's disease over 13 years as nonwalkers.  He also found that those with cognitive impariment who were able to walk five miles a week reduced cognitive decline by more than half.

    This gives us another great reason to get walking.  To help preserve brain health, the recommendation is to walk at least three-quarters of a mile each day.  Walking keeps neurons healthy by improving blood flow to the brain.

    Start where you are.  If you haven't been active, you may only be able to walk to the mail box and back.  Then that's where you start.  Use a pedometer to keep track of steps or use your car to measure out your walking course.  Get prepared.  Buy some decent walking shoes.  Find a walking companion.  Set a time and make the time and do something that may help you prevent Alzheimer's.