Memory is an essential aspect of our daily lives, but it is customary to forget things. Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disease due to the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain. However, it is possible to reduce the chances of developing Alzheimer's. One can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's by sleeping well, eating healthily, exercising regularly, reducing chronic stress, and learning new things. Sleep is essential as the glial cells responsible for clearing metabolic debris in the brain, including amyloid beta, are active during sleep. The Mediterranean or MIND diet, which includes green leafy vegetables, bright-colored fruits and berries, fatty fish, nuts, beans, and olive oils, can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. Exercise can reduce amyloid plaque levels and decrease the chances of developing Alzheimer's. Chronic stress can shrink the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for forming new memories, and inhibit the birth of new neurons, leading to a smaller structure essential for developing new memories. Therefore, practicing yoga, meditation, mindfulness, exercising, and socializing can restore cortisol levels and increase the size of the hippocampus. Lastly, learning new things can prevent the development of Alzheimer's.

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