Prevent Alzheimer's Disease Now

While there isn't any surefire way to prevent Alzheimer's disease, there are some things you can do now to lower your risks.

Working out regularly, watching your blood pressure, and stimulating your brain with new challenges have all been shown to reduce the risk for Alzheimer's. New research suggests that keeping your cholesterol in check could also defend against the disease. In a study of 9,700 men and women, scientists found that those with the highest total cholesterol levels in their 40's were more like to develop Alzheimer's later in life.

Also, try to follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and foods high in fiber and omega-3s.

Get Healthier Almost Instantly

Not one, not two, but five just-released studies found that vitamin D has wide-ranging benefits, from keeping your bones and heart healthy to reducing the risk of breast and other cancers. Yet, up to half of all women just don't get enough of it. Just 5 to 30 minutes of sunscreen-free afternoon sun on the arms and legs three times a week (paler women need the least time, darker the most) will help your body produce the vitamin D it needs.

If you live north of Texas, winter rays aren't strong enough to trigger vitamin D production, so experts suggest eating D-rich foods like salmon or taking a supplement. Most agree 800 to 1,000 IUs of D3 per day is enough.

Make Room For Your Workout Time

• Do you have a calendar for deadlines and events? Pencil in your workouts and cross them out when completed. Seeing them in writing makes you feel more committed.
• Find a gym close to the office or home. When you're rushed, getting there and back won't feel like a big ordeal.
• Invite a friend to join your or sign up for a class. When there are other people who expect you, it's harder to back out.
• Stock up on exercise DVDs. If you don't have time for the gym, you can at least get a great at-home workout.
• If you have to miss exercise time, commit to do office mini-workouts to make up the difference. Forgo the elevator, do laps around the floors, or walk the last leg of your commute home.

Brighten up Your Workspace

One potted plant might be all you need to feel better at work.

Researchers at Texas State University found that people who had a plant in their offices rated themselves as more satisfied with life and work that did those without them.

Bonus: there are also dozens of plants that are great for filtering toxins out of the air thereby improving the air you breathe. Black thumbs fear not: there is a plethora of hard to kill plants available. Try any version of dracaena, golden pothos, a peace lily, or for big impact, try a Boston fern.