Question: I just celebrated my 50th birthday, and I am very overweight and have diabetes. I have a terrible time with my memory.
I cannot remember people’s names, and I cannot remember things I talked to my husband about the previous day, which makes him get annoyed with me. Am I in danger of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?
Dr. Amen's Answer:
First, I would suggest that you take the free memory screening test on our Web site so you can get a better idea of whether you may have a problem.
Since you say you are “very” overweight, I have to let you know that obesity is terrible for your brain and increases your risk for memory problems later in life. A 2009 study in the journal Neurology found that middle-aged women with excess abdominal fat are more than twice as likely to develop dementia as they age.
There are many things you can do to improve your memory. These strategies also will help you lose weight and improve your overall health.
Simple things such as getting enough sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and eating brain-healthy foods such as blueberries (also known as “brain berries”) and wild salmon can improve moment-by-moment brain function. Eating frequent, smaller meals throughout the day can help keep your blood sugar levels which can help prevent the “brain fog” that can occur after big meals and sugary snacks.
If the memory screening test does show a potential problem, seek help sooner rather than later. With dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, early diagnosis is critical. Treatment often is more effective in the earlier stages and can delay progression of the disease.
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