Herbs & supplements

Try spice
Antioxidant-rich turmeric (Curcuma domestica), the yellow component in curry, may protect against dementia. But if curry isn't your favorite dish, take heart: You don't have to consume much to reap the benefits. According to a 2006 study, elderly participants without Alzheimer's who only occasionally ate curry—just once or more every six months—improved their cognitive function (American Journal of Epidemiology, 2006, vol. 164, no. 9). Try supplementing with 850 mg of turmeric daily, says Lottor.

Go for ginkgo
Although ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is often recommended for people already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, the most well-known form of dementia, it is now considered key to prevention (Fortschritte der Medizin Originalien, 2003, vol. 121, no. 1). "Ginkgo can help with aspects of mental performance in otherwise healthy adults," says Logan, who credits the supplement's ability to improve blood flow to the brain. He suggests a dose of 80 mg, three times daily.

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