Many people are very concerned about the ravages Alzheimer’s causes, especially if they have seen the devastation firsthand. Yes, Alzheimer’s is incredibly common, but that does not mean it is inevitable. Alzheimer’s is a disease that breaks down the brain over decades, but the strategies below will help keep the brain healthy and regenerating.

• Keep daily added sugar to 25 grams a day. Constantly overdosing on sugar wears out our insulin, and without healthy insulin the brain can’t get fuel and brain cells die.

• Eat lots of coconut oil. If insulin is challenged for any reason, the brain can convert coconut oil into fuel and get nourished without insulin.

• Daily exercise has shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s by 90 percent. Exercise also increases circulation and improves mood—other things that are great for the brain.

• Use it or lose it. Learning new skills keeps brain cells healthy.

• Get the brain and spine cared for by a chiropractor who is trained in releasing flight-or-fight. When we are stuck in constant stress mode, we decrease the blood supply to the higher brain, killing off nerve cells. In addition, our body puts out stress hormones like adrenaline, which puts massive stress on the thyroid, leading to weight gain and decreased motivation to exercise or eat well.

Keeping our brain and spine flexible, free and regularly “refreshed” is great to prevent Alzheimer’s and all diseases and promote longevity, happiness and better quality of life.

Dr. Joanne Haupert is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Inspired Healing, located at 4858 E. Broadway, in Tucson. Connect at 520-584-0343.