The right kinds of dietary fat may help protect you against Alzheimer's disease.

A recent study revealed that omega-3 fatty acids, a type of unsaturated fat, may help protect the brain against plaques that are associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. To get your daily helping of omega-3s, try these sources: walnuts, salmon, flaxseeds, and soy nuts.

In addition to potentially protecting the brain against plaques associated with cognitive decline, omega-3 fatty acids also preserve cardiovascular health because they inhibit the formation of blood clots, decrease triglycerides, and help keep arteries healthy. Flaxseed oil, certain nuts, canola oil, and cold-water fish, such as salmon, are all good sources of omega-3s. Exercising regularly and engaging in mentally stimulating activities such as reading, playing chess, or doing crossword puzzles are other ways to help preserve your cognitive function.

RealAge Benefit: Eating a low-fat diet--and eating healthful unsaturated fats when you do eat fat--can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger.

Take the RealAge Test