How can a woman protect herself from Alzheimer’s disease
March 12, 2021 – 9:03 PM hour
The neuroscientist explains
Is there such a thing as a female and male brain? Is this why women are less able to stand than men? Dr. Lisa Mosconi, author of The Female Brain (ROLT). The neuroscientist and doctor examined how women can consciously train their brains and prevent disease and give several advice in an interview with the news agency outlined in the news.
How do female and male brains differ from each other?
Lisa Mosconi: There are a lot of theories on this topic and most of them are just social constructs and stereotypes that have nothing to do with how the brain works. Barbie vs. LEGO, Pink vs. Blue, Mars and Venus – there is no such thing as a “sexbrain”. But there are some biological – often hormonal – differences between the sexes that are very important to a woman’s health.
For example, women are more likely to have an anxiety disorder or depression than men. Women are three times more likely to have multiple sclerosis and four times more likely to have headaches and migraines. In the near future, nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients will be women. Women over the age of 60 are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease compared to breast cancer. While breast cancer as a serious disease is at the center of the social debate – which is true and important of course – we have yet to come to the issue of Alzheimer’s disease among women.
Why do women often suffer from dementia, migraines and Alzheimer’s?
Mosconi: We’re trying to understand better, but so far it’s clear that menopause is a real turning point for brain health in a woman’s life. The concentration of estradiol, the strongest form of estrogen, drops sharply after menopause, but it is the “main regulator” of the female brain. Supports the growth and communication between nerve cells, strengthens the immune system and gives the brain energy.
When our estrogen levels are high, our brain energy is high. If focus decreases, the brain is more susceptible to many diseases, including serious ones. Naturally, environmental and lifestyle influences play a major role. Smoking is the number one risk factor for early menopause. Poor diet, lack of exercise, sleep deprivation and chronic stress also cause menopause.
How can women train consciously and strengthen their minds?
Mosconi: There are several things all women can do right away to keep their brain healthy: Stop smoking or eat more plant foods. Some plant foods contain phytoestrogens that aid hormonal health. These include, for example, flaxseeds, sesame seeds, chickpeas, dried apricots, whole grains, legumes, and various types of fruits. Additionally, these foods contain fiber, vitamins and minerals, all of which are essential for brain health.
It is also important to remain physically active, and to exercise three to five times a week. Research has shown that women who exercise regularly are less likely to develop dementia. Reducing stress is very important and getting regular and adequate sleep. But you should also stay away from toxins – for example, avoid plastic, especially plastic bottles and bottles, and invest in organic foods and quality skin care products whenever possible.
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