1. Vision Changes Could Be the First Sign of Dementia
Before memory loss becomes obvious, the eyes may hold the earliest clues to cognitive decline.
Studies show that the retina — considered an extension of the brain — can show early signs of neurological damage. According to recent research:
Night vision problems
Blurry or distorted central vision
Increased light sensitivity
Floating spots or “floaters” in vision
…could all be indicators that your brain is starting to show signs of degeneration.
2. Poor Oral Health Is Linked to Alzheimer’s
Your mouth and your brain are more connected than you think.
Chronic gum infections or poor oral hygiene can allow harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and potentially travel to the brain. Some studies have found these bacteria in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients — suggesting a possible link between oral infections and cognitive decline.
Takeaway: Brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly. Your brain may thank you.
3. Sleep: The Brain’s Nightly Detox Cycle
During deep sleep, the brain activates its glymphatic system — a powerful cleaning network that flushes out misfolded proteins and toxic waste linked to Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
But when you don’t get enough sleep (less than 7–8 hours), your brain misses the opportunity to clean itself properly.
🔹 What you can do:
Aim for 8–9 hours of quality sleep every night
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
Avoid screens and bright lights before bed
4. Alcohol Disrupts Sleep and Brain Repair
Although alcohol might help you fall asleep faster, it disrupts deep sleep cycles, interferes with REM sleep, and reduces growth hormone — all of which are essential for brain regeneration.
Tip: Limit or avoid alcohol, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.
5. Exercise: Oxygen and Growth for Your Brain
Physical activity does more than tone muscles — it keeps your brain healthy.
Regular exercise:
Improves oxygen flow to the brain
Reduces inflammation
Stimulates new brain cell growth (neurogenesis)
Even light to moderate activity like walking, swimming, or cycling can significantly reduce your risk of cognitive decline.
6. Sunlight and Sleep Hormones: Why They Matter
Exposure to natural daylight during the morning and afternoon helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, supporting deeper, more restorative sleep at night.
At night, reducing light exposure — especially blue light — helps stimulate melatonin, the hormone that signals your body it’s time to sleep.
Try this: Get at least 15–30 minutes of natural sunlight in the morning and limit bright screens after sunset.
7. Vitamin D and Brain Health
Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with poor sleep, depression, and even increased risk of dementia.
Vitamin D plays a role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and may help protect the brain from neuroinflammation.
Action step: Consider daily vitamin D supplementation, especially if you have limited sun exposure.
8. Nutrition: Fuel Your Brain the Right Way
The brain runs best on clean, stable fuel — and not the kind that comes from sugary snacks or processed carbohydrates.
Barbara O’Neill and many other health experts recommend reducing or eliminating:
Refined carbs
Sugary drinks and snacks
Instead, consider a ketogenic-style diet that uses ketones — a clean-burning energy source derived from fat — to fuel brain cells.
Helpful supplements:
Exogenous ketones
MCT oil (medium-chain triglycerides)
Niacin (Vitamin B3) — essential for energy production in the brain
These nutrients may help restore cognitive function and slow age-related brain decline.
Final Thoughts: Start Protecting Your Brain Now
Dementia doesn’t happen overnight — and the signs can start long before memory loss appears.
By paying attention to:
Changes in vision
Oral health
Sleep quality
Daily exercise
Sunlight exposure
Nutrient intake
…you can take meaningful steps to protect your brain and potentially prevent or delay cognitive decline.
