Dementia risk reduction through lifestyle optimization (nutrition/physical activity)

Abstract

Although disease modifying drugs for Alzheimer disease (AD) have been developed, it is unfeasible to implement disease–modifying therapy in all patients with AD, considering the large number of AD patients and the socio–economic burden of treatment. The WHO guidelines on risk reduction of cognitive decline and dementia (2019) provide 12–item evidence–based recommendations on lifestyle behaviors and interventions. We focus on nutrition and physical activity among them and discuss using own experiences.

Basic studies on AD models have reported that rosmarinic acid (RA) can inhibit the aggregation including oligomerization of amyloid β–protein (Aβ). We conducted clinical trials using lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) extract containing RA, and showed RA is tolerable and safe, in addition it may prevent cognitive decline in older adults without hypertension.

Regarding physical activity, we showed that decreased walking speed was significantly associated with hippocampal atrophy, global brain atrophy and white matter hypo intensities in community dwelling older adults. We also developed an exercise program for prevention of cognitive decline and improve physical function in the older adults.