Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. AD is not a part of normal aging. Genetic and environmental factors increase the risk for AD. You are more likely to develop AD if your close blood relative has the condition. You may also develop AD if you have a history of head trauma. High-calorie foods may help prevent malnutrition in AD patients.
High-Calorie Foods
Patients with AD often have increased calorie needs. AD causes behaviors such as constant pacing and wandering. These behaviors require additional calories. AD also causes confusion which makes it difficult for patients to know when they are hungry. AD patients who are neglected often suffer from malnutrition.If you are caring for a patients with AD, offer small frequent servings of high-calorie, high-protein foods such as milkshakes, whole milk, cheese, cream, cream-based soups and peanut butter sandwiches. You can also serve the patient high-calorie and high-protein snacks in between meals.
Beneficial Oils
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for for improving cognitive functions in patients with AD, notes MayoClinic.com. Omega-3 fatty acids also provide extra calories to AD patients. You can obtain omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, fish oil, olive oil, soybeans, soybean oil, flaxseeds, canola oil and walnuts.
Fruits and Vegetables
Serve AD patients meals that contain a variety of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are recommended for AD patients because they contain antioxidants, which are substances that protect brain cells, according to Alzheimer's Association. Examples of fruits and vegetables suitable for AD patients include spinach, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, eggplant, green peppers, beets, blueberries, strawberries, oranges, grapes and plums.
Symptoms
Symptoms of AD usually first appear as forgetfulness. As the disease progresses, patients may experience difficulties solving problems, difficulty performing basic tasks such as preparing meals, poor judgment, problems recognizing familiar objects, delusions, agitation, depression and personality changes. When AD becomes severe, patients may become incontinent and have problems swallowing.
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