When we think of dementia, we often fear a loss of control. But the reassuring news is that up to 40 percent of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed if we change our health habits. Dementia shares key risk factors with cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, being overweight, and smoking. Inflammation and oxidative stress (when protective antioxidants lose their fight with damaging free radicals) follow. This damages blood vessels and reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. Without enough oxygen, brain cells can’t function effectively, and they eventually die. Reduced blood flow also leaves the brain vulnerable to the plaques and tangles that are seen in forms of dementia. But by changing our habits, we can both improve heart health and reduce the risk of dementia. Here are five lifestyle changes that we can make today to protect cognitive function tomorrow. Eat 2 to 3 Servings of Oily …