We know age related cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s and other dementias, are becoming very common among seniors. In fact it is estimated that upon reaching age 85 the average American will have a 50/50 chance of having one of these brain wasting disorders, and as we get older our odds increase. So, is cognitive decline inevitable as we age?

Many have come to believe that a faulty memory, anxiety and dysphoria are just a normal part of aging, but that is not true. Have you ever known someone in their 90 who was still witty, and “sharp as a tack” with few if any significant signs of memory loss or dementia? Sure we all have. And that is “normal.” That is the way we were designed to be, and can be. Anything less is…abnormal.

While the brain does tend to slow down and shrink a bit as we age, this should not cause significant impairment, nor disrupt ones ability to remember recent events, perform normal daily activities, or enjoy life. Moreover, we know that most significant cognitive impairment is almost always a result of some underlying disorder or disease process, like diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, prolonged stress, systemic inflammation, exposure to toxins, a head injury, lack of oxygen or lack of sleep.

But if we examine these more closely we will see that all of these are preventable. Or they can be effectively treated, or at least their impact on the brain can be reduced, by providing our body and particularly our brain with the oxygen, nutrients and other things it needs to succeed.

For example we know that a metabolic problem called insulin resistance underlies diabetes as well as anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure; and it is a primary cause of memory loss as we age. However, Suzanne Craft, PhD Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Washington, has shown that insulin resistance, is “eminently treatable.” In fact just 30 minutes of moderate exercise will generally control insulin resistance for 24 hours, especially when combined with a diet low in sugar and saturated fats and high in protein and complex carbohydrates.

Some years ago the National Institute of Health published a pamphlet titled, “Can Alzheimer’s Disease Be Prevented?” In this publication they reviewed various activities and nutrients proven to reduce the risk for dementia. For example on page 11 they note:

“A nutritious diet – that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and is low in fat and added sugar—can reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.”

And thus reduce the risk for depression and dementia. More specifically, they note that green leafy vegetables and fruit high in antioxidants and folate have been associated with reduced rates of cognitive decline.

Another recent study out of England examining the impact of diet and lifestyle on mental and physical health, found that those who ate 7 or more servings of fruit and vegetables per day where the “happiest” of the lot. In fact they found this correlated more closely with satisfaction in life, than income, marital status, daily activities or any other single factor in the study!

Of course this makes good sense to anyone who understands the biological needs of the brain and the body. In short our brain cannot function fully if it lacks what it needs to succeed. And when these needs are met by a healthy diet containing, the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, proteins, complex carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids needed, people not only feel better, they are able to think better as well, and thus cognitive decline in later life is averted.

But what if a person has already suffered some mental deterioration, is there anything that can be done to prevent the progression to deeper depression or dementia? Yes there is. For example in my workshops I talk about 6 different nutrients and activities that have been shown to increase brain growth factors, one of which is brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) – typically referred to as “miracle grow” for the brain.

Finally, for those whose diet and lifestyle has not been the best, who may be feeling stressed, depressed or more forgetful:

Recently a nutritional formula, developed by a professor of molecular biologist, at the University of Massachusetts, was shown in a major study, funded by the Alzheimer’s Association, to arrest the symptoms of cognitive decline, even in seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease! This formula is now called Perceptiv™. And another study showed it works even faster and more effectively to elevate mood and memory in those who do not have dementia. .

So in answer to the question “Is cognitive decline inevitable with age?” The answer is –
NO. IF we provide our body and brain with the nutrients and other things they need to succeed, we can maintain a healthy brain at any age!

The specific protocols required to maintain a healthy brain are explained in depth in Mr. Larsen’s books and classes. For more information call 801 529-8238