😴 Sleep
What is deep non-REM sleep?
The deepest and most restorative phase of the sleep cycle, this stage of sleep clears amyloid-beta plaques.
What are antioxidants
Bioactive compounds like anthocyanins (berries) and resveratrol (grapes)reduce oxidative stress and lower free radical production
What is the highest attributable risk factor for AD?
physical inactivity
What is amyloid-beta plaque accumulation (Aβ burden)?
Buildup of misfolded protein fragments in the brain, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease
Why is insulin resistance detrimental to AD?
High-saturated-fat diets cause IR in the brain, which impairs synaptic plasticity and clearance of Aβ peptides.
What are the benefits of resistance exercise, due to the activation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)?
Resistance exercise stimulates muscle contraction, activating this growth factor that supports neuron survival and brain health.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
This common sleep disorder causes intermittent hypoxia, increasing amyloid-beta production and dementia risk.
What are Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)?
These harmful compounds are formed when proteins or fats combine with sugars and are commonly produced during high-heat cooking of meats. They can activate the RAGE receptor, increase inflammation and oxidative stress, and are linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease.
What does BDNF cross?
After being released from muscles during exercise, BDNF crosses this protective barrier to influence neurons in the brain.