Doctor shares seven simple lifestyle changes that could ward off dementia

A doctor has shared her seven top tips that can help wade off dementia as you get older.

According to Alzheimer's UK, around 982,000 people in the United Kingdom are living with dementia.

Symptoms include memory loss, problem solving, and communication issues. And while the exact cause of dementia is unknown, experts say there are ways you can reduce the chance of developing it.

Now, Dr Phillipa Kaye, a family doctor, has shared six things you can do to reduce your dementia risk in an interview with My Weekly.

READ MORE: Professor says one thing may protect you from Alzheimer's Disease

Stop smoking

The Alzheimer's Society says there is 'strong evidence' to suggest smoking increases a person's risk of developing dementia later in life. Smoking increases the risk of vascular problems that are linked to two of the most common form of dementia, Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.

Toxins in cigarettes are also said to cause inflammation and stress to cells. Both have been linked to Alzheimer's disease, the charity reports.

Keep your alcohol levels down

Dr Kaye says there is 'no safe alcohol level' for minimising your dementia risk but encourages people to drink no more than 14 units per week.

The Alzheimer's Society says there is no conclusive evidence linking moderate alcohol consumption and dementia risks, but admits there is evidence to suggest excessive drinking increases the risks.

Aim for a Mediterranean-style diet

Dr Kaye says eating more fruit, vegetables, whole grains and proteins, all often found in Mediterranean-style diets can help improve your general health.

A recent study even found that eating such a diet can reduce your risk of developing the condition by 23%. Research also shows such a diet can help maintain memory and thinking skills.

Eat foods rich in antioxidants

Dr Kaye encourages eating more foods that are rich in antioxidants such as green leafy vegetables. She says these can "protect the brain from oxidative stress which can damage cells."

Studies however have not conclusively decided whether they believe antioxidants do reduce dementia risks. Some say certain antioxidants in the blood can reduce dementia risk, while others claim they do not, reports the Alzheimer's Society.

Eat more oily fish

Dr Kaye also believes eating more oily fish, which are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, helps to lower your chances of developing the condition.

Omega 3 is said to be important to the brain throughout life, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are said to contribute towards developing Alzheimer's Disease.

Limit ultra-processed foods

Limiting your intake of ultra-processed foods has been found to help your health, Dr Kaye reports.

She says a recent study found a link between ultra-processed food and dementia. While it did not find "one caused the other," she says it found swapping 10% of ultra-processed food for less processed food resulted in a lower dementia risk.

Exercise more

Move around more! Dr Kaye says exercise can not only lower your dementia risks but can boost your mental health.

The Alzheimer's Society says physical activity is one of the "best things that you can do to reduce your risk of developing dementia".