Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease Risk Factors and how The CR Way can help
Formation of Beta-Amyloid Plaque
Developing Alzheimer’s disease is increased by formation of beta-amyloid plaque. Beta amyloid is the protein that is the main constituent of the plaques present in the brains of Alzheimer's patients.
How The CR Way
can help
SIRT1, a key regulating gene that controls important benefits gained from following The CR Way may block beta-amyloid formation.
Download PDF Obesity
Being overweight causes high levels of insulin in the blood, which increases brain levels of beta-amyloid.
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How The CR Way
can help
The CR Way gives guidance on how to make insulin production more effective – helping your body have insulin ready to process food when needed. This lowers insulin levels overall – making insulin-provoked formation of beta-amyloid protein less likely. In addition, The CR Way activates SIRT1, a gene that actually blocks a key cellular fat receptor – making it easier to lose weight.
High Saturated Fat Intake
In a 4-year study of 815 people, aged 65 and older, increased intake of saturated fat more than doubled the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Saturated fat increases LDL levels, which may play a role in the formation of the beta-amyloid plaques.
How The CR Way
can help
Sweet potatoes, lentils, walnuts, and salmon are just a few of The CR Way foods to choose that are all low in saturated fat. Try some CR Way
recipes to start enjoying delicious meals that are low in saturated fat.
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High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure reduces blood flow to the brain. Decreased blood to the brain may contribute to development of Alzheimer's disease.
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How The CR Way
can help
Keeping artery walls clear, preserving the heart’s pumping function, and healthy fat choices are some of the ways The CR Way keeps blood pressure low – reducing Alzheimer’s risk.
Poor Lipid Profile
Alzheimer’s risk increases when HDL (high-density lipoprotein), the “good” cholesterol, is low. HDL clears excess cholesterol from the blood and assists maturation of nerve-cell synapses. It may also help control the formation of beta-amyloid protein.
How The CR Way
can help
Check Chapter 5 “Healthy Heart” for suggestions to improve lipid profile. Adding healthy fat sources like walnuts or olive oil into your diet, coupled with regular exercise are some of the suggestions that increase HDL cholesterol.
Excessive Inflammation
Inflammation can negatively affect brain molecules, causing beta-amyloid proteins to misfold (develop improperly). Misfolded beta-amyloid proteins are the main ingredient of the plaques that characterize Alzheimer’s disease.
How The CR Way
can help
Living The CR Way activates the longevity gene, SIRT1 , which will blocks NF?B, a key activator of inflammation. Disease Prevention: how the CR Way diet, exercise, and stress management plans can help.