Living at high altitudes might actually help protect against dementia, according to recent research. Scientists have found that people who live at higher elevations tend to have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia[1].
The reason for this protective effect isn’t fully understood yet, but researchers have some ideas. One theory is that the lower oxygen levels at high altitudes cause the body to adapt in ways that improve blood flow to the brain[1]. This increased blood flow could help keep brain cells healthy and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Another possible explanation is that living at high altitudes exposes people to more intense sunlight, which helps the body produce more vitamin D[1]. Vitamin D is important for brain health and has been linked to a lower risk of dementia in some studies.
It’s important to note that while living at high altitudes seems to have some benefits for brain health, it’s not a guarantee against dementia. Other factors like diet, exercise, and overall health still play a big role in determining dementia risk[1].
Interestingly, this protective effect of high-altitude living seems to be strongest for people who have lived at high elevations for a long time[1]. So if you’re thinking of moving to the mountains to boost your brain health, it might take a while to see the benefits.
Of course, not everyone can or wants to move to a high-altitude area. The good news is that there are plenty of other ways to reduce your risk of dementia, like staying physically active, eating a healthy diet, and keeping your mind engaged with challenging activities[1].
In the end, while living at high altitudes might offer some protection against dementia, it’s just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to maintaining good brain health as we age.
