Aging doesn’t cause Alzheimer’s.
While Alzheimer’s disease is more common in people over 65, age is not the cause — it’s the accumulation of lifestyle and environmental factors over decades that set the stage for cognitive decline. Those with a genetic predisposition face an even higher risk, but genetics alone do not determine your future.
Children and teenagers don’t develop Alzheimer’s because the biological and environmental triggers take years to cause damage. Alzheimer’s is a complex neurodegenerative condition with roots in toxic exposures, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, and poor sleep — all of which can be modified.
The Common Thread: Oxidative Stress
A key driver in Alzheimer’s and other chronic diseases is high oxidative stress. This occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals — unstable molecules that damage cells — and antioxidants, the body’s defense system.
High oxidative stress can:
- Damage neurons and brain cells
- Trigger chronic inflammation
- Disrupt cellular function
- Accelerate neurodegeneration
In fact, my recent 63-year-old client’s oxidative stress levels matched those of a 76-year-old — a 13-year difference. And that’s mild compared to others I’ve tested who already have an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
What Causes Oxidative Stress?
Factors that increase oxidative stress include:
- Poor dietary choices and nutrient deficiencies
- Physical inactivity
- Chronic stress
- Exposure to environmental toxins (pesticides, heavy metals, mold)
- Poor quality sleep
Oxidative stress often goes unnoticed in its early stages. Over time, it contributes to symptoms like memory loss, poor concentration, and mental fatigue — often mistaken as “normal aging.” Left unchecked, it can lead to Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic conditions.
Testing & Prevention
Early testing for oxidative stress and related biomarkers can detect problems before symptoms appear. Proactive steps to reduce oxidative stress include:
- Eating an anti-inflammatory, whole-foods diet rich in antioxidants
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress with mindfulness, meditation, or breathing practices
- Prioritizing 7-8 hours of restorative sleep
- Reducing toxic exposures in your home and environment
By addressing oxidative stress, you protect your brain health and lower your Alzheimer’s risk — regardless of your age.
The Real Challenge: Lifestyle Change
Many people underestimate how significant these lifestyle changes need to be. Modern conveniences have made us complacent — and often unknowingly exposed to toxins. Poor gut health, nutrient deficiencies, and chronic stress are silently eroding health long before symptoms appear.
By the time someone reaches their 60s, symptoms may be dismissed as “just getting older.” But this is preventable.
Don’t joke about your health-span. You can stay sharp and healthy well into older age, but it requires consistent, multi-faceted action now.
Take Action Today!
If you’re ready to understand your current brain health risks and create a personalized plan, book a consultation with me.
🧠 Click here to book an initial call with me.
Angela Chapman, M.Ed., FDN-P, is a certified ReCODE practitioner and brain health educator. Her weekly newsletter is packed with cutting-edge information on how to prevent, slow, or reverse cognitive decline.
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