Eyes Unlock Dementia Secrets a DECADE Early
The eyes are the window to the soul.
We all know the old saying, of course. Its precise origins are unclear (it’s been attributed to the Bible, William Shakespeare, and Leonardo Da Vinci), but we know it’s true.
After all, our eyes DO have a way of exposing our feelings.
However, it’s not just emotions that our eyes reveal. New research found they can also be a window into another vital aspect of our health…
…like your brain.
There’s new evidence that your eyes could predict the onset of dementia an astounding 12 years before you receive an official diagnosis.
In a groundbreaking study, participants were given a unique vision test. They were tasked with pressing a button when they spotted a triangle hidden among a sea of moving dots.
Volunteers who later developed dementia were significantly slower in identifying the triangle compared to their cognitively healthy counterparts. The likely reason behind this “invisible” slowdown is alarming.
Amyloid plaques are the toxic culprits linked to the development of Alzheimer’s. The researchers theorize that the plaques may silently attack the areas of your brain responsible for vision long before we see the memory symptoms we’re all looking for.
It’s a stealthy assault on brain function that goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
It’s not the only clue our eyesight gives us, either. Alzheimer’s can also impair your ability to perceive outlines, differentiate colors, and process various visual information.
Even worse, you might not even know these changes are occurring.
It’s one of the reasons regular check-ins with your doctor are so critical. But between visits, you can do some simple things to support your brain health, improve your memory, and fend off dementia…
- Research suggests that regular concentrated eye movements… essentially eye exercises…. can stave off memory loss. It may explain why folks who engage in mentally stimulating activities— like watching television and reading—have a lower risk of developing dementia.
- Consider engaging in yoga, tai chi, or meditation to promote mental clarity and focus. There are free videos online that can help teach you the basics. Or look for a local class to learn.
- Add a brain-supporting herb such as Ginkgo biloba, turmeric, bacopa, or ginseng to your routine.
- Adopt a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish your brain.
- Engage in regular exercise to improve blood flow and keep your brain active.
- Prioritize quality sleep to allow your brain the rest and rejuvenation it needs.
- Continuously challenge your mind with new learning experiences and mentally stimulating activities, from doing crosswords to playing trivia games.
Speed-of-processing training is another way to help your brain process visual information more quickly and correctly. It can improve your general cognitive function and may even lower your risk of dementia.
If you’re interested in trying out this method, there are online games and smartphone apps that incorporate this type of brain training. Try searching for “speed of processing training online.”
One I like is BrainHQ. It’s attached to a study, fun to do, and you can even participate for free.
Don’t allow dementia to creep up on you unnoticed. Take control of your brain health today and give your eyes the attention they deserve.
P.S. The “TWO for ONE” deal that protects your eyes AND brain!
Source:
Begde, A., Wilcockson, T., Brayne, C., & Hogervorst, E. (2024). Visual processing speed and its association with future dementia development in a population-based prospective cohort: EPIC-Norfolk. Scientific Reports, 14. doi. org /10. 1038 /s41598-024-55637-x
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Are Electrolyte Sports Drinks REALLY Healthy?
You’ve undoubtedly seen the colorful sports drinks lining grocery store shelves. They promise to replenish our electrolytes and boost our performance. But are these trendy beverages really the health elixirs they claim to be? Keep reading to uncover the surprising truth about electrolytes and their impact on your health… Electrolytes are minerals in your blood...
The TRUTH About Winter Weight Gain
Happy New Year! If you’re like many folks, you woke up today thinking about the year ahead, determined to turn over a new leaf. In fact, the number one New Year’s resolution year after year is to lose some weight. Common wisdom claims that putting on five pounds over the winter is inevitable. But is...
Mailbag: 3 “Cocktail Companions” to Safely Ring in the New Year
“I don’t usually drink alcohol. But I’m going to a New Year’s party and might have a few drinks. Can I do anything to make them less harmful to my health?” -Cheering In the New Year Hi Cheering, As you prepare for your New Year’s celebration tonight, you may be looking forward to raising a...
Could a Fall Be a Warning Sign for Something WORSE?
Falls are an unfortunate reality for many older adults. They’re among the most common causes of injuries and hospital visits for seniors. But what if a fall could mean something more? New research raises concerns that falls might be more than just a physical issue—they could be an early warning sign of a devastating condition…...
Want to Live Longer? Reach for Your Toes
We know that staying active is crucial for healthy aging. But what if touching your toes might be just as critical as taking your daily walk? Surprised? Well, new research suggests that flexibility could be the secret ingredient to a longer, healthier life. A groundbreaking study from Brazil uncovered a fascinating link between flexibility and...
Tiny Toxic Threat Lurking in the Air You Breathe
Imagine taking a deep breath of fresh air, only to realize that—along with oxygen—you’re also inhaling tiny plastic particles. It may sound like a scene from a science-fiction film, but new research reveals microplastics have found their way into the very air we breathe—and they may pose serious risks to your health. Recently, scientists discovered...
Micro Eye Movements Make for Crystal-Clear Vision
Think about when you’re reading… Maybe you’ve come across a word you’re unfamiliar with. You zero in, focusing your gaze on each letter. But while you’re concentrating, your eyes are far from still. They’re making constant, tiny movements, even if you don’t notice them. Known as fixational drift, these micro-movements may actually be the key...
9 Modern Health Threats that ACTUALLY Matter
The world is a scary place sometimes. It can feel like we’re surrounded by health threats and forced to seek out miracle cures to fix them. But here’s the thing. When everything feels so urgent, it’s easy to get caught up in minor concerns while overlooking the real threats to your wellbeing. While debates about...
Ancient Wise Man's Gift Brings Modern Pain Relief
As we exchange gifts to celebrate Christmas today, we remember the biblical story of the Three Wise Men bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While you might be hoping to find some gold in your stocking this year, it turns out that frankincense could be the REAL treasure—especially if you’re battling knee pain. Yes,...
Mailbag: Restless Legs Ruining Your Sleep? Try THIS
“What can I do to help my restless legs? They bother me in the daytime if I sit down for a while, but some nights, it keeps me up all night.” – Looking for a Leg Up on Sleep Hi Leg Up, Few things are more frustrating than being nestled all snug in your bed,...