Alzheimer’s robs the mind and memory of millions of people but there is no cure for the disease. 78 million Baby Boomers are beginning to shift from middle age to older age and many are fearful of developing Alzheimer’s. A new book by renowned neurologist Vincent Fortanasce MD, The Anti-Alzheimer’s Prescription, lays out a 4-step process to help prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s.

Step 1: The Anti-Alzheimer’s Diet
By embracing a Harmonic Diet, you can boost your powers of memory and concentration. It’s high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, folate, fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, lean protein, nuts, seeds, legumes, unrefined whole grains, olive oil, good fats, and low-fat dairy products such as yogurt and cheese. Avoid red meat, sugary desserts and processed foods. The Harmonic Method of eating is employed: eat protein and fat first to stimulate glucagon and control insulin release, eating 1/3 distribution of calories from good fat, another third from lean protein, and a third of complex carbohydrates throughout the day. Lean bodies burn three times the calories as fat ones.

Step 2: Brawn Boosters
Daily aerobics and anaerobics for the body and mind help build a stronger, smarter brain. The older you get, the more important exercise becomes to balancing your hormonal symphony, augmenting the brain’s growth and reserve, and reducing the effects of the sentinel risk factors (chronic stress and sleeplessness). Exercise reduces stress and helps avert binge-eating, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and depression. Exercise builds brain mass and capacity, stimulates anabolic hormone production, and increases muscle mass and the body’s metabolic rate. It prevents falls and injuries that lead to obesity.

Step 3: Brain Boosters
The brain is like an interest-baring account. It’s capacity can increase as we age despite our agility loss. By giving your brain a daily workout, we improve our mental fitness, strength, and flexibility. No matter how old you are, your brain can continue to grow new neurons and dendrites – and rewire itself. What can help? Three essentials are needed – 1) novelty, 2) earning it, and 3) practicing it. Do they usual, differently. Eat and write with your non-dominant hand. Memorize birthdays and anniversaries. Learn new words or languages. Your boss will be impressed and your spouse will be amazed!

Step 4: Rest and Recovery Lead You to Your Circle of Quiet
A fast-paced lifestyle and too little sleep can result in Alzheimer’s. Chronic stress destroys the brain. Remember to plan, prepare, and pray. Plan your day by writing it down. Prepare by prioritizing and being on time. Pray to recognize what you can do from what you can’t and the wisdom to know the difference. Take the 12 steps: identify stressors, talk therapy, meditation, strengthening social support, rekindling your spiritual side or religious beliefs, laughing more, exercising, listening to music, taking antidepressants where needed, practicing relaxation techniques, and getting a healing sleep, give yourself some peace and solitude.