Get fit for your memory

Dear Friend,

Alzheimer’s disease is the 7th ranked cause of death in the US. It affects memory, while keeping movement intact. This is the opposite of Parkinson’s disease, which affects movement and keeps memory and cognitive function intact. There are other forms of neurodegenerative disorders affecting combinations of cognition and movement.

The medications developed for Alzheimer’s do very little to move the needle in advanced disease. The key is in prevention, by that I mean delaying onset as late as possible such that the brain is not the cause of disability or death.

The solution is specific types of exercise done regularly, started early in life.

The brain is separated from the rest of the body by the blood brain barrier. This protects the brain from harmful pathogens and molecules, while allowing required nutrients and oxygen to pass through.

Lactic acid, the cause of the “burn” felt when doing wall squats or cycling up a hill, helps maintain the health of the blood brain barrier.

Easy enough, so what’s the challenge?

The specific exercise we’re talking about is miserable:

20 seconds all out max intensity, followed by 40 seconds rest (repeat 5 rounds): 5 minutes of discomfort once or twice a week.

This degree of intensity is physically demanding and can push the limits. That said with the right approach and focused priority, we can make this a sustainable add-on to our exercise regimen.

Let’s talk about one of our clients, 55M with family history and genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Working out regularly, but NOT naturally gifted in high intensity workouts.

• “Knowing” that the risk for Alzheimer’s is increased, it lit a fire of determination

• Gradually increasing the load of the lactic acid flush workouts, allowed for achievable progress, while avoiding injury

• Finding the right modality (rowing, cycling, running), was a challenge, but important to ensure an ideal movement pattern tailored to his strengths

• Additional tips: Limit use of GPS, spatial awareness and navigation are functions that decline with dementia

I’ve recently purchased an Echo bike for the house and so far “hate it so good”. The convenience of having it at home, makes it easy and obvious: I literally have to walk by it in the garage before entering the house.

Next time let’s talk about exercise for movement disorders (Parkinson’s disease).

At BodyTimeMD we make our clients gain comfort with discomfort. By working hard, we make life feel easy. Hope this provides some insight, let’s talk if you are interested in finding out more about your body.

 This newsletter is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute giving medical advice or endorsing any treatment. The use or application of the content herein forms no doctor-patient relationship. The information in this newsletter should not substitute for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Thanks,

Mike