Lose weight and keep dementia at bay

Most of us know that going on a weight loss regime can boost heart health, but it also could reduce a person's risk of dementia later in life.

Professor June Andrews, director of the Dementia Services Development Centre at the University of Stirling, said a number of lifestyle factors, such as eating healthily, can help ward off the chances of the illness developing.

"Exercise is very important, as is keeping yourself busy, socialising, and the right diet. Doctors say that 'what's good for your heart is good for your head', so keeping healthy in ways that improve your circulation is always helpful," Professor Andrews advised.

She said this includes quitting smoking and watching your weight, adding that this also helps people to avoid problems like diabetes.

Her comments were echoed in a study by researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, which said that over half of all Alzheimer's disease cases could potentially be prevented through lifestyle changes.

Does your health or your appearance motivate you to lose weight?