Dementia: Failure to lower stress 'early in life' could double risk of brain decline

Separate animal studies have highlighted the fact that in mice, stress hormones are linked to higher levels of amyloid and tau protein, which is a key characteristic of Alzheimer’s.

This region of the brain manages key functions like memory, which is most affected in neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

This has led some scientists to suggest that stress hormones, which are significantly elevated in humans, may not be a consequence of the disease but the cause.

Fortunately, a healthy diet, practising meditation and deep breathing techniques and exercising regularly can all help stave off complications related to stress.