The Alzheimer's Prevention Program: Keep Your Brain Healthy for the Rest of Your Life

Written by Gary Small, M.D., and his wife, Gigi Vorgan, authors of The New York Times bestseller, The Memory Bible, The Alzheimer’s Prevention Program is a whole body, whole mind, easy-to-follow regimen based on the latest research on Alzheimer’s disease, and especially the connection between lifestyle and susceptibility.

The only “cure” for Alzheimer’s is prevention, and The Alzheimer’s Prevention Program shows the reader how to take control. The program begins with an assessment test, checking everything from recall to physical balance. Then, with a baseline established, it introduces the 7-Day jumpstart program—just seven days to begin to improve everything: memory training 101, including the author’s easy-to-use “Look, Snap, Connect” memory technique. Daily mental workouts to sharpen your brain: wordplay, letter scrambles, 3-D drawings, tricky equations, logic challenges, and number sequences. Healthy brain nutrition, filled with antioxidants— berries, avocados, raw vegetables; omega-3 rich, anti-inflammatory food choices, including fish, whole grains, legumes; and the memory-boosting spices most often found in Indian curries. Stress-reduction strategies to fortify neurons. Best aerobic and strength exercises.

An American is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s every 70 seconds. Here, right now, is an easy-to-follow, science-based breakthrough program that will add years of brain health and mental clarity to a person's life.

"Director of the UCLA Longevity Center, Small and partner Vorgan (The Memory Prescription) have refined their program into a seven-day kick-start to master such frustrating memory problems as 'tip-of-the-tongue' phenomena and forgetting names, while developing healthy habits that could delay or prevent the onset of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Their regime includes a diet that fights inflammation and is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and brain-building proteins and carbs; stress relief (e.g., meditation, plentiful sleep, setting realistic goals); moderate physical exercise (walking, strength training, dancing, and even shopping); and daily mental challenges to practice focus and concentration. In sidebar q&as, the authors dispel or confirm current beliefs about memory loss; for example, the dangers of aluminum exposure and cellphones. They also provide quizzes to determine readers' physical, mental, and stress profiles. The star performers are entertaining brain games and mood-lifting strategies aimed at decreasing harmful stress hormones. The simple dietary and fitness recommendations are small steps with potentially high returns for long-term brain health. A brief section on health care, supplements, and drugs that can help or harm the brain will assist those considering medical treatment." Publishers Weekly Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

Gigi Vorgan has been a writer and producer for feature films and television, and now works as a co-author with her husband.