The quality of life for Alzheimer's patients can be greatly improved with proper nutrition, reports the Health Sciences Institute. One of the hallmarks of the disease is erratic eating behaviors that lead to poor nutrition. In studies, Alzheimer patients were found to have consistently low levels of calcium, certain vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids.
Meals
Although the taste buds lose their strength with the aging process, Alzheimer's disease can decrease the taste and smell functions even more significantly, reports the Mayo Clinic. Additionally, other conditions can affect the patient's desire to eat regularly. Common conditions that interfere with eating include ill-fitting dentures, loss of appetite because of certain medications, constipation and depression. Alzheimer's patients are easily distracted and have trouble sitting through meals as well. To provide healthy, nutritious meals a person with Alzheimer's will eat, try serving meals on brightly colored dishes to provide a visual contrast making it easier to find the food. Use bowls and easy to handle utensils and turn of the television and other environmental distractions. Serve milkshakes with added nutrients, such as fruit, dietary supplement powders and protein. Consider bite-sized soft snacks and cutting the food up so that's it's more easily consumed.
Diets
There is no special diet required for people with Alzheimer's disease, report doctors at the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research. Patients need to eat healthy, well-rounded meals and snacks on a regular basis. As memory fades, many patients forget to eat and lose track of their movements when preparing meals. Leave notes reminding patients of when they are supposed to eat when they are in the early stages of the disease and still mainly managing their own diets. Eventually, nerve cell damage destroys the patient's ability to recognize thirst and hunger, making those with Alzheimer's prone to malnutrition and dehydration. Set schedules are the best way to deal with the demands. Serve water and other drinks, meals and snacks at set times each day.
Supplements
Various supplements have proven effective in treating symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Doctors at the Health Science Institute report that supplements containing lemon balm and sage extract might slow the progression of the disease. Sage inhibits certain enzymes that affect the neurotransmitters and might help to improve the attention and behavior of Alzheimer's patients. Lemon balm is helpful in reducing agitation and improving the overall quality of life. MIT researchers recommend a supplement that contains omega-3 fatty acids, as found in fish oil, uridine and choline. The combination can reduce the cognitive loss that occurs with Alzheimer's disease.
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