BABY BOOMERS FACE ALZHEIMER’S EPIDEMIC. This disease is now the seventh deadliest illness. People under the age of 65 are inexplicably stricken with so-called “early-onset Alzheimer’s. CLEARLY SOMETHING IS WRONG. But what? Alzheimer’s is NOT a normal part of aging, any more than autism is a “stage” that children commonly go through. WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S? Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic form of dementia that results in severe memory loss and eventually death. The average lifespan of someone with Alzheimer’s is about eight years, although many can survive a lot longer with proper care. It is not entirely clear what causes Alzheimer’s disease, but it is related to thyroid hormone dysfunction, intracellular T3 ( immune system cells) deficiency, and diabetes. The risk factors for Alzheimer’s include genetic, environmental and dietary factors. Primary dietary risk factors include trans-fatty acids that are found in so many processed foods (labeled as partially-hydrogenized vegetable oils). One study also found that elevated homocysteine levels were associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Homocysteine levels are elevated when you are deficient in vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin B12. Primary environmental factors include: smoking, obesity, and exposure to fluoride, aluminum and mercury. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your chances of getting Alzheimer’s. Simple lifestyle changes can keep your brain in optimal working order well past your 60’s Eat a nutritious diet with plenty of vegetables and pay special attention to avoiding sugar. Eat plenty of high- quality omega-3 krill oil. Avoid most fish contaminated with mercury. Avoid aluminum, such as antiperspirants, cookware, etc. Exercise three to five hours per week. Challenge your mind daily. Mental stimulation, such as learning to play an instrument or doing crossword puzzles, is associated with a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s