The link between stress and Alzheimer’s disease is an essential consideration for family members of seniors with cognitive decline.
Research has shown that there is a correlation between stress and the progression of the disease. This means that taking care of one’s mental health can potentially help delay or even prevent the onset of dementia symptoms.
Due to the pandemic, people are experiencing record levels of stress. In a survey from September 2020, data shows that American adults displayed higher rates of drug and alcohol use due to the pandemic.
The survey displayed a 55% increase in substance consumption, with the most common reasons for the increased use were coping with stress, relieving boredom, or coping with mental health symptoms.
Stress affects the immune system, which has long been implicated as a critical factor in developing Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists believe the hallmark amyloid protein of Alzheimer’s disease disrupts the function of an immune cell called microglia, which clears toxins and debris from our brains.
Another response to stress our bodies have is to release cortisol, which has been linked to a decline in memory retrieval. In addition, stress is closely linked with other mental conditions such as depression and anxiety, which have been suggested as risk factors for dementia and other cognitive diseases.
Although stress is not the only risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, there has never been a more critical time to learn some tricks to de-stress.
Magnesium Helps Fight Stress and Alzheimer’s Disease
Magnesium is one of the essential nutrients for our bodies. However, when we have low magnesium, stress takes over— repetitive, intrusive thoughts flood in, tight or even spasming muscles can occur, effectively interfering with the 600 biochemical processes magnesium is responsible for in our bodies.
With common ailments such as Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and IBS, taking prescription medications and indulging in high volumes of sugar, caffeine, and alcohol can deplete our bodies of optimal magnesium levels.
With refined and highly processed foods lacking in the magnesium we ingest through our food, nearly all adults do not have optimal magnesium levels. In addition, multivitamins do not usually supply our bodies with the needed amount of this vital mineral, so consider taking a magnesium supplement.
Do not exceed 350mg of magnesium per day, as having too much magnesium is not healthy either.
Vitamin D and Sun Reduces Depression and Anxiety
Going outside has many benefits on relaxing our nervous systems. Specifically, vitamin D, which is absorbed through the sun, is another vital nutrient for our overall health and stress support.
Affecting every major system in our body, vitamin D also plays a pivotal role in supporting immune health. Optimal vitamin D levels also decrease the risk of osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension and defends our bodies from viruses.
Countless studies have proven an overall boost in mental health when taking just 1,000IU of the vitamin daily, with users claiming reduced feelings of depression and anxiety. But unfortunately, vitamin D is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies, with just under half of American adults with suboptimal levels in their blood.
Those with darker skin tend to have even lower amounts of vitamin D, as higher melanin levels in the skin produce less vitamin D in response to sunlight. As very few foods have high enough vitamin D levels to be absorbed by our bodies, taking a supplement or increasing daily sun exposure is the best way to increase vitamin D in our bodies.
Ways of Stress Management for Seniors
The best way to manage stress and Alzheimer’s disease is a planned approach.
Stress can come from many different sources. These include financial difficulties, relationship problems, health problems, or retirement.
For seniors specifically, stress tends to stem from feelings of isolation and loneliness and being physically unwell. To handle stress effectively, you must first determine the source of your anxiety to be addressed directly.
Your Body Needs to Move Everyday – You need to walk for at least 30 minutes a day. It can be as simple as taking walks, gardening, or any other physical activity that will keep you active every day.
Exercising mentally and physically helps eliminate some symptoms associated with aging like memory loss, depression, and low energy.
Swimming is one of the best exercises for seniors. This exercise helps reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, maintains bone health, and improves joint mobility among seniors.
If you are too old or have certain medical conditions that would limit your ability to do exercises, swimming is the best option. It keeps your blood circulation flowing throughout the body without putting significant stress on joints or muscles.
Laugh Daily – Daily laughter helps seniors cope with the stress and feel rejuvenated. Laughing makes it possible to feel great about life and forget negative thoughts.
People of all ages should find time every day for fun and laughter. This will help them deal with stress better, and they can be happy no matter what happens around their environment.
Be With Friends – Being lonely increases your chances of depression. So hang out with friends or family members who are positive towards life. This will help you live a happier life. In addition, friends can help seniors get through their problems.
Eat the Right Foods –Seniors who eat the right foods manage stress better. So what are the correct food choices? The right foods are those that provide enough energy and, at the same time, release it slowly so as not to create peaks of insulin that cause fatigue and confusion.
This means more protein (fish, chicken, beans) and less sugar (refined carbohydrates). Also, eating meals usually improves digestion and therefore provides a stable source of energy throughout the day.
Stress and Alzheimer’s – Conclusion
With these readily available supplements and lifestyle changes, we can naturally and healthily clear up the intense stress of this pandemic. With stress being a risk factor for so many ailments, from Alzheimer’s to heart disease, it is of utmost importance that we stay on top of our stress, not letting it consume our lives.
As the population of seniors grows, more and more people will be dealing with stress and Alzheimer’s disease. The key to managing this illness is through stress management techniques that help reduce anxiety.
It’s important not to ignore or hide your feelings of uncertainty because it can harm your health and mood over time. For example, if left untreated, they may lead to depression which has been linked to significant risk factors for developing dementia later in life.
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