Date:01/10/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/10/01/stories/2007100158780300.htm

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Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Keep body and mind active Health and Lifestyle

R. Sujatha

Simple lifestyle the answer for a healthy life

— File Photo: N. SRIDHARAN.

KEEPING FIT: An hour of moderate, brisk exercise could contribute significantly to quality life, say doctors.

CHENNAI: Following a simple lifestyle could well be the answer to a healthy life, say doctors. At the various functions held as part of World Alzheimer’s Day recently, a recurring theme was the need to carefully balance unavoidable lifestyle changes.

According to neurologists, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), caused by vascular dementia, is more common in India. Lifestyle-induced diseases such as diabetes and hypertension could lead to the AD, they say. “People come to us even at the age of 50 and say they are not able to do their regular work with the same alertness or that they are suddenly forgetful, like forgetting their regular route to office,” says A. Murugesan, head of Neuro Medicine at Government Stanley Hospital.

Doctors advise mental exercises for people exhibiting such early signs. “We have a tendency to cover up our weaknesses. But there are simple tests which ensure that more circuits of the brain are used,” says neurologist R. Lakshmi Narasimhan.

Doctors recommend keeping the brain active by giving it enough exercise. Brain teasers such as Sudoku, puzzles and mazes keep the neurons active. Simple exercises such as taking a new route to the office and learning new things keep the brain engaged, neurologists say. The AD is caused by death of neurons and protein deposits in the brain.

An hour of brisk exercise every day gives two hours of quality life, he says. Outdoor games, aerobics and deep breathing are ways to remain active. “Take up mentally challenging, stimulating work. Learn a new language and develop social connectivity,” says V. Gurumoorthy, chairman, Epidemiology Department, Sri Ramachandra University.

Large helpings of fresh vegetables, greens and fruits that are rich in anti-oxidants are a must. Instead of fattening oneself on dairy products, it is better to gorge on nuts, beans, legumes, pulses, peas and beans, he suggests.

Even adults must get seven hours of sleep. Sugary beverages and food rich in additives, salt and colouring agents are better avoided. “Youngsters must be taught breathing exercises. When a person takes in a breath, he inhales 500 cc of air. During a deep inspiration, it is about 4,000 cc,” he explains.