Worst common habits for the brain that can cause Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease, one of the most common forms of dementia, has been on rise in the past decades. In modern times, certain lifestyle habits are affecting our brain health and increasing the risk of Alzheimer's. Leading an inactive lifestyle, eating unhealthy, being lonely, and not getting adequate sleep are some of the common habits that could be 'shrinking' our brain.
Around 7 million people in the US are living with Alzheimer's and this number is projected to almost double by 2050, and rise to around 13 million.A leading cause of death for elderly, Alzheimer's disease is a growing concern that needs to be addressed.
Ahead of World's Alzheimer's Day on September 21, 2024, let's look at the daily habits that are harmful for your brain health and can put you at risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Not getting enough sleep for extended time can increase your risk of Alzheimer's as research says it could increase levels of tau, a protein in your brain, which is linked to Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. A research published in Sleep states that cognitive skills like memory, reasoning, and problem-solving dip when people sleep fewer than seven hours per night.

Meeting people and socializing with them keeps your brain strong and active. Loneliness on the other hand can prove to be detrimental for your brain health. Loneliness can speed up cognitive decline and is linked to depression and a higher risk for Alzheimer’s. As per a study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, people who do not mix up with others lose more of the brain's gray matter.
Exercise promotes blood flow to brain and helps release feel-good endorphins. Sedentary lifestyle on the other hand can diminish your brain power and can cause cognitive issues like Alzheimer's disease. Being a couch potato is not only making you obese, it's also making you less intelligent.
Food not just satisfies your hunger pangs, but also nourishes your body and mind. A balanced diet can help in the efficient functioning of brain and all body parts. Junk food is devoid of fibre and nutrients that are found in a balanced diet. When your brain doesn't get enough nutrients, the function is slowed down. Besides, it can also make you obese which is bad for your brain.
Stress is the biggest enemy of your brain. According to Harvard Health, chronic stress can kill brain cells and shrink the prefrontal cortex, the brain's area responsible for memory and learning. Meditation, Yoga, mindfulness, pursuing hobbies, meeting people, and taking good sleep help in beating stress.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can significantly increase risk of Alzheimer's and one should avoid indulging in it excessively. According to a review of 37 research studies, compared to non-smokers, current smokers were 30% more likely to develop dementia in general and 40% more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease and while little can be done about herditary issues or genes, effective lifestyle measures will ensure you are able to prevent yourself from cognitive decline. While it starts with memory loss, as Alzheimer's disease grows, it's difficult to carry on day-to-day tasks, and one has to be completely dependent on others.