Physical and mental health is contingent on many factors. Diet plays a large role in how well we function day to day – not to mention how effectively our body and mind react to all of the onslaughts of environment and aging. As you may expect, healthy foods help our bodies to maintain a stronger immunity, and allow us to stay stronger and healthier overall.
If you have a loved one with early onset dementia of Alzheimer’s disease, helping them to eat a diet full of healthy foods may help to slow down symptoms and allow them to live a more productive life. Here are a few foods which experts have acknowledged can have a positive effect on dementia patients.
Incorporate these 8 Healthy Foods into Your Meals
In addition to a healthy diet, it is more important than ever to pay attention to a healthy lifestyle. Obesity, heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure can all negatively impact brain function – so in addition to eating right, ask your physician about an appropriate senior exercise plan to stay flexible and healthy.
1. Leafy greens are high in folate and B9, which can improve cognition and minimize signs of depression. Although some consider kale, spinach and collard greens to be a bit bitter, it is worth it to find ways you add these greens to your daily recipes.
2. Cruciferous vegetables are a family of foods which contain folate like the leafy greens, but also contain cartenoids – which reduce homo-cysteine, an amino acid known to negatively impact cognitive behavior. The cruciferous family includes brussel sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower.
3. Berries and cherries offer numerous benefits, including being loaded with antioxidants and plenty of vitamins C and E. These fruits protect the brain from free radicals and provide a natural anti-inflammatory.
4. Omega 3s have been proven to have a dramatic impact on the brain. People who ingest Omega 3s daily enjoy a 26% lower risk of developing the brain lesions which cause dementia. These fatty acids assist the brain in staying in top condition. Omega fatty acids can be derived from fish, flax seeds or olive oil – or you can ask your doctor for a good omega 3 supplement.
5. Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews and pecans also offer the Omega 3s you need, but also offer much more health benefit; containing Vitamin E, folate, vitamin B6, magnesium and omega 6. Seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower seeds are great sources of zinc, choline and vitamin E.
6. Beans and legumes of all kinds will provide folate, iron, magnesium and potassium; all of which assist with overall body function and wellness. They also contain choline, a B vitamin which stimulates the presence of acetylcholine, a neuro transmitter essential to brain function.
7. Spices such as cinnamon, sage, turmeric, and cumin break up brain plaque and minimize brain inflammation, which may result in fewer memory issues.
8. Vegetables, gourds and fruits such as pumpkin, squash, asparagus, tomatoes, carrots and beets contain vitamin A, folate and iron, all of which will help with brain cognition.
When you or a loved one are facing a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it can feel like you do not have control. However, you can take control of your daily routine, and the foods which you choose to put into your body. Avoid sugars and processed food, and eat as many of these healthy foods as you can. Not only will you be increasing your chances to slow your symptoms, but you will feel healthier overall.
At A Banyan Residence, we are committed to help memory care patients to live the most fulfilling life possible. Come visit our Venice memory care facility today to learn more about how we inspire brain health, every day.
