Lecture 19+20 AI generated Flashcards
Describe the risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia.
Risk factors include age, gender, genes, ethnicity, smoking, BMI/obesity, alcohol consumption, physical activity, cognitive activity, and nutrition.
Describe the effects of aerobic exercise, resistance training, multicomponent training, and tai chi on cognitive health.
These types of physical activities have significant positive effects on cognitive health.
What are some cognitive activities that can help protect against dementia?
Meeting friends, volunteering, learning a second language, reading, puzzles, and crosswords are activities that can protect against dementia.
Define the relationship between lower plasma nutrient levels and Alzheimer’s disease.
Lower plasma nutrient levels are associated with Alzheimer’s disease, but they are not related to malnutrition. These lower levels are limiting nutrients for phospholipid formation.
How do omega-3 fatty acids benefit cognitive health?
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA found in fatty fish, are associated with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of amyloid precursor protein, which lowers β amyloid.
Describe the types of nutritional interventions for Alzheimer’s disease.
There are three types of nutritional interventions: individual nutrients/foods, a combination of nutrients, or dietary patterns.
What is the dietary source of folate, a B-vitamin?
Folate can be found in green leafy vegetables, fruit, and wholemeal grain products.
Describe the sources of Vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 can be found in animal products such as meat, fish, milk, cheese, and eggs.
What is the main cause of Vitamin B12 deficiency in elderly people?
Malabsorption is the main cause of Vitamin B12 deficiency in 25-40% of elderly individuals.
Define the role of B-vitamins in the body related to homocysteine levels.
B-vitamins are essential for re-methylation of homocysteine (Hcy) to prevent its increase, which can lead to various negative effects like neuronal death and neurotoxicity.
How do antioxidants protect the body?
Antioxidants such as carotenoids, vitamin C and E, and flavonoids protect against ‘free radicals’ and harmful substances produced by oxidation reactions in the body.
Describe the paradoxical effect of alcohol on the brain.
Alcohol acts as a neurotoxin but also improves vascular function, with flavonoids in wine acting as antioxidants. There is a U-shaped curve in terms of its impact, with moderation recommended.
Describe the association between wine and dementia/Al’s disease (AD)
Wine is linked to a reduced incidence of dementia and AD.
What is the association of vitamin D deficiency with cognition in the elderly?
A low vitamin D status is associated with worse cognition and more cognitive decline in the elderly.
How does caffeine affect brain cells and communication in the brain?
Caffeine acts as a neuro-stimulator of cholinergic neurons, improving communication between brain cells, especially those receiving signals.
