When I wrote recently about a new study suggesting that levels of lithium in the brain may be a factor in Alzheimer's, I was careful to emphasize that real-world application of the research may be far away into the future.

But in fact, there are lifestyle changes you can make, right now, that numerous studies have shown helps manage the disease and even prevent it — and a new study, out this month, even more strongly reinforces those findings. As exciting as this ability to slow or prevent Alzheimer's disease is, I understand it may be bittersweet news as you think of your loved one. So far, none of these strategies has been found to reverse the damage of Alzheimer's disease or significantly slow the disease.