If you're like me, you may remember playing a game as a child where you had to figure out which of a group of things did not fit with each other. Well, take the following words: Alzheimer's, dementia, prevention, brain health, CrossFit training. Which doesn't fit?
They all fit. Are you familiar with CrossFit training? It's a method of physical exercise that uses many different ways to torture, I mean, work out, your muscles and cardiovascular system. The theory behind CrossFit training is that using your body in many different ways is better than just going out and running every day.
So, how does CrossFit training fit in with Alzheimer's? Some of the latest research seems to indicate that using our brains in a variety of ways can help delay symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Other researchers feel that using our brains actively doesn't only delay symptoms but can also assist in prevention. While there is no scientifically proven way to completely prevent Alzheimer's yet, there has been solid research showing a delay in symptoms, as I outlined recently.
Now, to clarify, I've seen many individuals who appear to have done everything right, in terms of living an active, healthy lifestyle, both with their body and brain, and yet they still have Alzheimer's disease. We don't have this down to a science yet. There have been, however, significant studies conducted that show clear benefits of an active brain, including delay of Alzheimer's symptoms, mood improvement and overall physical health.
What are some ways you can cross train your brain? Glad you asked. I've compiled a list of 12 ways to stretch your brain for you to consider, but would also welcome your ideas and thoughts.
