Habits to help prevent Dementia: Stop Smoking

 7. Abstain from Smoking

In addition to the negative impacts on your lungs and heart, smoking harms the brain and contributes to a higher risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Studies show that people who smoke are at a higher risk of developing all types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Cigarettes and cigarette smoke contain numerous chemical compounds that are toxic to the body. Research has found that these substances contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation, and atherosclerotic processes, which in turn contribute to the catalyzing processes that appear to cause Alzheimer’s disease.

Avoiding smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke can reduce your risk of dementia as well as diseases of the heart and lungs. If you are working towards quitting smoking, methods based on mindfulness and self-awareness can help make the process easier and more effective. Having a strong basis of self-knowledge, respecting your limitations, and understanding your goals are key steps towards abstaining from habits that harm your health, including smoking.

A personalized and healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone of disease prevention and promoting brain health. By combining these balanced lifestyle habits, you can help create good brain health and reduce your risk of cognitive decline.

By Jennifer Weinberg written on November 26, 2019, and published online at https://chopra.com

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only; it does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Chopra Center's Mind-Body Medical Group, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health programs.