Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Alzheimer Disease and the Sun
Because I have relatives who are fighting the dreaded Alzheimer disease, I can tell you that I am well aware of the cost of this illness, not only money-wise, but especially in terms of the pain it causes. The victim is not the only person affected because the disease poses such a heavy burden on family members and close friends.
            The risk of getting Alzheimer disease and dementia increase with age. Statistics show that in the U.S. one in nine people is affected, and that two-thirds of those are women. In Canada, the numbers are similar with 15% of Canadians over the age of 65 being affected. It is predicted that the incidence of the disease will double over the next 15 years as the population continues to age since most Alzheimer disease sufferers are 75 or older.
            The question certainly is: what can any of us do to ensure we remain dementia free in our golden years? We are all aware that to reduce the risks of any disease, a proper diet and exercise certainly top the list. And when it comes to dementia in all its forms, being active mentally is especially important. So is being engaged in life through social activities.
            In addition, maintaining optimal levels of vitamin D all year long can help older adults and seniors prevent cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease, according to Dr. Reinhold Vieth of the University of Toronto. Research results on Alzheimer disease published in the Journal Neurology found that older adults who have low vitamin D levels are twice as likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer disease. Vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of dementia go hand in hand.
            Also, a Swedish study has shown that women who avoid sunshine shorten their lifespan by the same amount as smokers reports the Canadian-based Vitamin D Society. Higher levels of vitamin D have been related to lower risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis as well as osteoporosis, Dr. Vieth says. “Most of our vitamin D supply comes from exposure of the skin to sunshine. Moderate sunshine has always been known to be good for us.”
            Now that the good weather is here, a good way to get vitamin D into your system is to spend time in the sun. The Vitamin D Society advises adults to maintain an optima blood level of vitamin D by spending 15 to 30 minutes in the sun from mid May to early October, and then put on sunscreen or light clothing to prevent damage.
            Now is a good time to get started.