Dementia and Alzheimer's disease can be difficult to deal with, especially for caregivers and family members. While there is no special diet for dementia or Alzheimer disease patients, it is important to continue to consume a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet. These conditions can result in appetite and taste changes, weight gain or loss and the inability to chew or digest food. Consuming a healthy diet is one essential key to proper brain function.
Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
Dementia is a term used to define the brain disorders that affect the progressive loss of brain function. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease. If you have Alzheimer's disease, your healthy brain tissue deteriorates, causing a decline in your memory and mental abilities. You eventually lose intellectual and social functions, affecting your activities of daily living. Dementia is not considered part of the normal aging process. However, your risk of developing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease increases with age. According to MayoClinic.com, approximately 5 percent of individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from Alzheimer's disease, while nearly half the people over the age 85 have Alzheimer's disease.
Fruits and Vegetables
You should eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day to prevent and improve brain function. Dark-skinned fruits and vegetables have the highest levels of antioxidants, but all fruits and vegetables are good for you. Good selections include kale, Brussels sprouts spinach, alfalfa, broccoli, beets, red pepper, onion, eggplant, prunes, raisins, blueberries, raspberries, plums, organs, blackberries, strawberries, cherries and grapes among others. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, folate, potassium and fiber, which help to protect your body and brain. Eat across the rainbow and try new fruits and vegetables regularly.
Healthy Fats
You should avoid saturated fats and cholesterol-rich foods such as whole milk, red meat and processed or packaged foods. According to the Alzheimer's Association, these foods are associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease. Instead, choose healthy, unsaturated fats, which are known to keep the brain functioning properly. These include fish, flax seeds and vegetable oils. Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids which is beneficial for the heart and the brain. You should consume at least two servings of cold-water fish per week, including halibut, mackerel, tuna, trout and salmon. You should cook with olive, canola or palm oil. You can also try grilling, steaming or baking instead of frying.
Whole Grains and Nuts
You should choose whole-grain breads and cereals instead of white breads and flours which contain simple sugars. Whole-grains will provide your body and brain with lasting energy and will not spike your body's insulin levels which affect the brain. It is also important to include beans, nuts and seeds as alternative sources of protein in your diet. These foods will add variety, give you energy and are full of vitamin E and other antioxidants.
Importance of Exercise
You should also incorporate a regular exercise routine into your daily life. MayoClinic.com reports that higher levels of physical activity are associated not only with weight maintenance, but also a lower incidence of Alzheimer's disease. Mental exercise is just as important. Keeping the mind active will promote the growth of additional synapse, the connections between neurons, and delay the onset of dementia.
