Mid-life stress may contribute to deterioration of the brain. CREDIT: George Hodan

Researchers said developing dementia among women in their mid-40s may increase due to stress. A study involved 800 Swedish women and showed that women who have experienced bereavement or undergone divorce are more likely to suffer from dementia in their senior years.

The study noted stress hormones are likely the culprits in triggering brain changes that lead to the progress of Alzheimer's disease. Such hormones can negatively impact a person's blood sugar level and increase blood pressure.

Many participants, whose ages ranged from late-30s to mid-50s, underwent a series of tests. At the start of the study, one in four participants said they went through at least one stressful period. During the follow up, 425 of the 800 women had died and 153 of them developed dementia.

3 Ways To Prevent Dementia

Alzheimer's, the most common type of dementia, has no cure according to medical experts. While researchers and scientists race towards a cure, here are three preventive measures:

1. Regular Exercise

CREDIT: Petr Kratochvil

Exercise does not only boost the mood but also reduces stress, improves one's memory and increases energy. The Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation says regular exercise reduces dementia risk by 50 percent.

2. Drink Tea and Go Mediterranean

CREDIT: Petr Kratochvil

Eating healthy will lessen dementia risk, but there are food items and beverages that should be consumed more. Green tea, for example, contains a flavonoid that helps prevent dementia. Four separate studies have confirmed that the flavonoid present in tea prevents brain-deterioration-causing plaques from accumulating. One study conducted by University of Leeds said green tea and red wine extracts prevent plaques from attaching to the nerve cells.

While there are many healthy food choices available in the market, having a Mediterranean diet means eating more fish, nuts, fresh produce, olive oil, and grains. Those in the Mediterranean diet are also found in dark chocolate and red wine.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep deprivation can increase the risk of dementia so it is important to give the brain a time to rest. Lack of sleep can also cause tiredness and crankiness.