Learning To Thrive in the Shadow of Alzheimer’s

What would you do if you knew Alzheimer’s disease was in your future?

Jamie Ten Napel Tyrone was only 49 years old when she learned she had a genetic predisposition toward Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Her genes translated to a 91 percent chance that she would contract the disease during her lifetime.

As a former nurse, and with her family’s history with AD, Jamie decided to take action rather than concede defeat. She founded B.A.B.E.S. (Beating Alzheimer’s By Embracing Science) to raise money and awareness in the search for a cure. Working with Marwan Noel Sabbagh, MD, and John Hanc, they have written Fighting for My Life: How To Thrive in the Shadow of Alzheimer’s as a practical, helpful guide for anyone impacted by AD. This book also includes cutting-edge medical guidance and daily steps you can take to protect yourself against this disease. The authors also review the pros and cons of genetic testing.

To Test or Not To Test

The science of genetics exploded in 2003 with the release of the Human Genome Project, in which researchers mapped the 25,000 genes in the human genome. Genetic tests provide a glimpse into the DNA we inherited from our families: the good, the bad, and the terrifying. Genetic testing is actually quite simple. DNA is collected from saliva, blood, or a cheek swab. The results of these tests, as well as other tests such as laboratory and imaging tests, can be used to help diagnose a variety of diseases including AD.

Clearly, this is an exciting scientific advancement, but it can also be problematic. For example, if one person receives disturbing news, this news could also apply to other family members as well, which could create stress between family members. Nonetheless, knowing your genetic status might be a great motivator to make lifestyle changes that can help delay the development of AD.

Protecting Yourself Against AD

There are certain risk factors for AD that cannot be modified: age, gender, ethnicity. Nonetheless, there are risks that can be modified:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Body weight and obesity
• Stroke and vascular dementia
• Heart disease
• Traumatic brain injury
• Smoking
• Depression

Tips for Protecting Against or Delaying AD

Living a full, healthy, physically active lifestyle with nutritious food, close friends, and mental stimulation is the best strategy.

• Eating better is one of the top recommendations. For example, the North American Aging Project recommends the Mediterranean diet. The Whole Food, Plant-Based Diet is also recommended by other researchers.
• • B vitamins support brain health.
  • Turmeric and cinnamon also support brain health.
  • Coffee and green tea have protective properties against AD.
• The recommended amount of cardio exercise daily is 30 minutes.
• • The World Health Organization recommends that older people do 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise and 75 minutes a week of vigorous exercise.
• Keep your mind in shape by trying new things and learning new skills.
• Socializing with friends, family, and community is a critical element for staying healthy longer.

Fighting for My Life is filled with specific, scientifically researched information about AD. If you have questions about AD, this is the book for you.