Natural Strategies for Alzheimer’s Prevention and Brain Health Improvement

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions worldwide, gradually eroding memory and cognitive function. In 2025, it became Australia's number one killer.

Alzheimer's is a disease known as 'preventative or modifiable'. This means, like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, we are able to prevent this disease taking hold and possibly reducing, or reversing, symptoms.

Emerging evidence shows a whole body approach can help reduce brain insults and support brain health. This is where naturopaths play a vital role. Providing prevention, addressing lifestyle and nutritional guidance, and creating personalised treatment plans to protect and restore brain function.

How Brain Insults Contribute to Alzheimer’s Risk

Brain insults refer to factors that damage brain cells and disrupt neural networks. Over time, these insults accumulate and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by impairing memory and cognitive pathways. Naturopaths focus on identifying and reducing these insults.

Research shows risk factors for developing Alzheimer's disease include:

• Toxins and heavy metals

• Viruses and chronic infections

• Lack of brain required nutrients

• Poor sleep

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Lack of education

• Brain trauma

• Genetics

• Air pollution

• Hearing loss

• and even loneliness

  
  

As a naturopath, I target these, and other root causes, helping to protect brain cells from ongoing damage, creating a healthier environment for the brain to function at its optimum.

Restoring Brain Connections to Enhance Memory and Function

Alzheimer’s disease disrupts the connections that occur in the brain, preventing messages and information, to flow freely. Fortunately, the brain has some ability to rewire and form new connections, a process called neuroplasticity. Simple lifestyle activities that can enhance neuroplasitity, or new brain connections, include:

• Cognitive exercises such as puzzles, memory games, and learning new skills which stimulates new pathways.

• Physical activity which increases blood flow and promotes the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports neuron growth.

• Mind-body practices like meditation and yoga that reduce stress hormones harmful to brain cells.

  
  

These methods help rebuild and strengthen brain networks, improving memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.

Individual Brain Risk Assessments

Every person’s brain health risk factors differ based on genetics, lifestyle, environment, and medical history. I use detailed assessments to identify individual risks and tailor prevention plans. These assessments may include:

• Lifestyle evaluation covering diet, exercise, sleep, stress and overall health

• Bloodwork and other functional testing to check for inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and toxin levels

  
  

This personalised approach ensures that treatment targets your specific causes, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. With Alzheimer's disease, there are many root causes contributing to the making of amyloid plagues and tau tangles. It is therefore essential to discover your personal possible risk factors.

Practical Tips to Support Brain Health Naturally

Anyone interested in reducing Alzheimer’s risk can start with these simple habits:

• Eat a colourful variety of vegetables daily.

• Include fatty fish or plant-based omega-3 sources several times a week.

• Stay physically active

• Prioritise quality sleep

• Manage stress through mindfulness, hobbies, or social connection

• Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, and environmental toxins

• Engage in mentally stimulating activities regularly

Alzheimer’s prevention and brain health improvement require a comprehensive, personalised approach. Understanding your individual risks and following tailored treatment plans, can support your memory and cognitive function.

Taking proactive steps today can help protect your brain for tomorrow. Your never too young, or too old, to start looking after your brain health.

I'm here to guide, motivate, and help you restore or improve, your brain health.

Amanda x

The Naturopathic Care Clinic