A family history of Alzheimer's disease (AD) dramatically increases the risk for descendants by four times. Percentages are even higher if the parent with AD was the mother. Alzheimer's sufferers have plaque buildup called beta-amyloid (AB) in the brain and, prior to 2008, the only way to be certain the problem was AD was through an autopsy.
In 2008, researchers created a dye that would bind to beta-amyloid deposits. Using the dye, called PiB, it's now possible to perform a PET scan to monitor beta-amyloid buildup and track AD progress in a living patient.
This protocol was used in a study involving more than 200 cognitively normal adults over the age of 45. In that study researchers, using PiB and PET scan imaging, found sedentary participants with a family history of AD had much higher beta-amyloid buildup than those who stayed active.
According to multiple research studies, prevention and treatment are remarkably simple: just get out of the house and take a walk. If you are among the millions of people who've inherited a high AD risk, walking every day can be vitally important.
Scientists have proven that a daily walk (better yet, several walks a day) will improve the health of every part of the body. Medical researchers have been amazed by the health-promoting effects of simply walking every day.
You may have inherited a tendency to gain weight if other people in your family are overweight. As proven in the Harvard School of Public Health study covered on my website, a walking program can cut your genetic liability by 50 percent. If you sit on the couch all day, watch television and snack, your obesity genes work overtime.
Research studies and other information details are covered in greater depth on www.larryRmiller.com. Also covered is information on how walking can promote human growth hormone and contribute to anti-aging.
Larry R. Miller has been a freelance writer, worldwide health and fitness information source since 1982.