Food can’t bring memories back, but healthy choices can strengthen brain capacity and boost activity, curbing symptoms of dementia. To boost brain activity and prevent early onset and progression of dementia, be sure to incorporate these five food groups into your diet:
- Greens
While vegetables are always a healthy choice, green vegetables have specifically been linked to cognitive retention. Adults who regularly eat greens demonstrate greater proficiency on memory tests and exhibit fewer signs of cognitive decline.
Food for thought: Kale, broccoli, arugula, cabbage, brussel sprouts, and cabbage greens
- Fruits
High oxidative stress continues to correlate with dementia symptoms, so fruits with high levels of antioxidants should serve as your first line of defense.
Food for thought: Blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and avocado (believe it or not, avocado is a fruit!)
- Nuts & Seeds
Nuts and seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help prevent inflammation of cell membranes and protect the neurons in the brain.
Food for thought: Pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, peanuts, and almonds
- Spices
Several spices have high levels of antioxidants, similar to dark fruits and berries, and can combat the effects of oxidative stress.
Food for thought: Cinnamon, cilantro, rosemary, chamomile, and peppermint
- Fish
Similar to nuts and seeds, certain fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to strengthening and protecting brain cells, omega-3 fatty acids support a healthy heart.
Food for thought: Tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel, and sardines
Understanding that healthy eating habits can positively impact a dementia patient’s overall wellness is critical. How do you develop meal plans? Share your ideas with us on Facebook!
For more information, check out these resources:
Hart, C. (2013, October 15). Memory boosting superfoods that fight Alzheimer’s. Alzheimers.net Blog. Retrieved from http://www.alzheimers.net/2013-10-15/superfoods-that-fight-alzheimers/
National Institute on Aging. (2016, July 25). The search for Alzheimer’s prevention strategies. National Institute on Aging: Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/publication/preventing-alzheimers-disease/search-alzheimers-prevention-strategies
Alzheimer’s Association. (2017). Alternative treatments. Alzheimer’s Association. Retrieved from http://www.alz.org/professionals_and_researchers_alternative_treatments_.asp