Researchers have discovered links between the foods we eat and decreasing the rate of dementia. The key focus to prevent and treat disease should be nutrition.
Improving Memory
Nowadays most superfoods are readily available in pill form, but the best way to consume them is in their natural form of food. Fruits, vegetables, and other foods have thousands of phytochemicals that can protect against Alzheimer’s disease and other ailments.
Vegetables
Leafy green vegetables have protective effects on the brain and are beneficial for the health in general. Increased intake of vegetables is associated with a lower risk of dementia and slower rates of cognitive decline in old age. Although, it’s important to note that elderly who take blood thinners should avoid kale because it is high in Vitamin K and can have dangerous adverse effects.
Omega-3’s
Fish, grains, and nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids that can slow down the rate of Alzheimer’s. Although, it should be known that there isn’t sufficient evidence that omega-3’s can treat Alzheimer’s disease. Foods that contain omega-3’s are known to be the healthiest foods and are beneficial to whole-body health.
Caffeine
Caffeine has been shown to improve brain function and memory. Healthy forms of it can be found in chocolate and coffee. A recent study showed that caffeine may inhibit a neurotransmitter associated with Alzheimer’s, slowing down the disease. Daily caffeine intake is connected to increased memory capacity.
Spices
Numerous spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric have unique compounds that are beneficial in cognitive benefits. Spices have a neuroprotective effect that contribute to an improvement in cognitive function. The many compounds in spices have multiple beneficial factors, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-hypertensive, and gluco-regulatory.
Fruits
Antioxidants found in food have been shown to improve cognitive function in those with Alzheimer’s. One study found that an antioxidant was able to reduce plaques in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s. Fruits that are high in antioxidants are raspberries, strawberries, oranges, and other dark skinned fruit.
Healthy Oils
Coconut oil has been shown to possibly have Alzheimer’s fighting effects. Investigations are being done for the possibility of using coconut oil to replace an approved medicine used to treat Alzheimer’s. Also, olive oil contains polyphenols that are known to be neuroprotective.
Fairmont Grand Senior Living Community in Rapid City, SD
Fairmont Grand is a resident centered senior living and memory care facility in Rapid City, SD. Our goal is to create an environment where resident well-being is at the heart of everything we do.
Our wide range of services are designed to meet you or your loved one’s daily needs. We offer restaurant style dining options, a variety of physical activities, and give residents the opportunity to live as independently as possible.
If you or a loved one near Rapid City, South Dakota are considering assisted living or memory care, contact Fairmont Grand to learn more about individualized living options or tour our community.
