Alzheimer's is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease that causes dementia, memory loss, personality changes and eventual death. According to ScienceDaily, Alzheimer's affects 5.1 million people in the U.S. It is caused by plaques of beta-amyloid, a toxic protein that adheres to neurons in the brain. Studies have revealed that diet is important in the prevention of the formation of Alzheimer's brain lesions. In particular, preliminary studies have shown that foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, caffeine, B complex vitamins and vitamin E may lower the incidence of Alzheimer's disease.
A Balanced Diet
A healthy, balanced diet with plenty of omega-3 fatty acids and fruits and vegetables is recommended for overall good health, to prevent obesity and in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. According to CBS News, obesity, hypertension and high cholesterol in middle age significantly increase the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's. In one 10-year longitudinal study of 13,388 nurses in their 60s, those who had eaten eight servings per week of cruciferous and green, leafy vegetables showed less mental decline than those that consumed just three servings per week.
Foods
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids may decrease the risk of developing brain lesions found in Alzheimer's disease. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish, eggs, organ meats, micro algae and fortified foods. Avocado and walnuts are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eating less animal fats and more fish is a good way to increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Also, vegetables and fruit with antioxidants that destroy damaging free-radical cells, and foods with caffeine, such as coffee, have been found to be helpful in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease, according to a report by ScienceDaily.
Considerations
Good nutrition is vital to the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. It is important to avoid fried foods, and fattening foods with empty calories, as they have been cited as risk factors in the development of plaque and subsequently the brain lesions found in Alzheimer's disease. Eating a variety of healthful foods, and exercising regularly is helpful in preventing Alzheimer's disease. Conversely, it is important to avoid consumption of "junk food" that is often high in fat and lacking in vitamins and nutrients that are important in the fight against Alzheimer's.
Potential
Though more studies are needed, certain foods are vital to the fight against Alzheimer's disease. According to the University of Maryland, "antioxidants may protect against the development of dementia, and may even slow the progression." Similarly, ScienceDaily reports that long-term caffeine intake, as few as five cups per day, may have the potential to decrease the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Theories/Speculation
Furthermore, according to Science Daily, in tests on mice, it appears that caffeine not onlt seems to protect them from getting memory impairment, but also offers promise in the treatment of Alzheimers.
Clearly, progress is being made in research that links dietary intake and Alzheimer's disease. However, more studies are needed to establish the full extent of the role that diet plays in this debilitating disease.
