What happens in the evening may matter more for brain health than many people realize. In a new EatingWell report, registered dietitians outline six things to avoid after 5 p.m. as part of a broader effort to help reduce Alzheimer’s risk.

The article focuses on the idea that while major risk factors such as age and genetics cannot be changed, everyday choices still play a role. In particular, it points to the foods and drinks people reach for later in the day, suggesting that evening eating habits can either support or undermine long-term cognitive health.

Rather than presenting a cure or guarantee, the advice is framed as practical risk reduction. The message is that late-day routines can gradually affect overall wellness, and that being more intentional about what you consume after 5 p.m. may be one way to better support brain function over time.

The takeaway is a simple one: protecting brain health is not only about major lifestyle overhauls. Small, consistent adjustments to dinner, snacks and drinks in the evening may be part of a smarter approach to lowering Alzheimer’s risk.