Alzheimer’s Disease, Diet attributes to the functionality of the body, including the brain. Focusing on food choices can improve weight, reduce the symptoms of illness and many diseases, and boost the immune system reducing illness while maintaining a healthy body and working to prevent disease. Some studies have recommended the MIND method of eating to reduce the rate at which the brain degenerates and the mind is slowed.
Combining the Mediterranean Diet that encourages using foods cooked in the Mediterranean style to support the health of the heart and the body and the DASH is intended to decrease hypertension, a diet that benefits the entire body and the mind as well. The resulting MIND diet is called the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. The following foods are included in this diet and are recommended for those with developing dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Changes in diet and food choices are not a replacement for Alzheimer’s medication or other Alzheimer’s treatments but rather are intended to assist in the slowing of the disease and helping to maintain cognitive function as long as possible.
10 Foods That Fight Alzheimer’s Disease
10- Berries:
Berries are recommended to boost memory and cognitive function. This includes many types of berries and even berry juice, strawberries, and blueberries being among the most popular with acai berries growing in popularity. Including these in smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal, are all ways in which berries can be added to the diet.
9- Leafy Greens:
Leafy Green is a term that is growing in usage as people move towards healthier diets, including vegan or vegetarian diets. This type of food includes green-leaf vegetables such as kale, arugula, spinach, chard, and mustard greens. While they have been popular in several dishes and locations for decades, recent additions to smoothies and altered salad recipes have made them easier to consume.
8- Nuts:
Nuts are a prime source of healthy fats and have been shown to boost memory and maintain functions. Some studies have even shown that using nuts as a snack or for cooking will not only improve weight loss and boost protein levels but also reduce the risk of dementia while also improving memory in those who have already developed the beginning signs of Alzheimer’s.
7- Chocolate:
Dark chocolate has been shown to have properties that improve memory and health. It slows the development of dementia and protects cognitive function. When consumed in moderation it can be not only enjoyable but beneficial for brain health as well as heart health.
6- Fish:
The fatty acids that are found in fish are beneficial for cognitive function. They provide the brain with the ability to maintain connections and improve recall. The most common types of fish include salmon, tuna, halibut, trout, and even sardines. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in a few other foods; however, supplements are widely available.
5- Cinnamon:
While most often used as a spice, added to drinks, and applesauce, cinnamon also has beneficial effects on brain health. It is a natural anti-inflammatory and works to reduce the build-up that occurs throughout the brain of a protein that slows its ability to relay information. By clearing this it improves the ability of the brain to function and will also help to lower blood pressure to protect the brain functions.
4- Curcumin:
When adding this spice to foods it not only adds flavor and heat but also eases inflammation and protects cognitive functioning. This spice is not easily absorbed by the human body so is best consumed in combination with others the improve this factor.
3- Fruits and Vegetables:
Adding servings of fruits and vegetables to your daily diet is one of the best ways to protect your health, both the brain and the body. They help to maintain hydration, which is key to brain health, as well as provide the vitamins and minerals that are needed to maintain cognitive function and improve memory and recall.
2- Mild Alcohol Consumption:
Some studies have shown that like berries and the other foods it is made from, consuming alcohol in moderation can help to support heart and brain health. It is not recommended for everyone, and after a few glasses a week, it becomes detrimental to health rather than supportive.
While many things are unknown and beyond our control, food choices and diet are things that people can control. As part of Alzheimer’s care a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, dark chocolate, cinnamon, fish, nuts, and berries, can all help to boost memory and protect cognitive functioning.
Blood pressure and the health of the body and especially oral health are also key to brain health, leading to developments in diets that are protective of cognitive functioning, boost heart health, and keep the body healthy. When used in conjunction with other treatments and medication, as well as exercise and puzzle or other brain exercises, diet can help to slow or delay the stages of Alzheimer’s.
