Alzheimer's disease affects not only the mind but every aspect of a person's life. Many people witness a loved one's mind slowly deteriorate through Alzheimer's as they age. It may be possible to help prevent Alzheimer's disease with good nutrition. Though nutrition is not a guarantee that you won't get the disease, you are less likely to get Alzheimer's if you eat certain foods.
Fish
According to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation, diets rich in fish can lower your chances of getting Alzheimer's disease. They state that many forms of fish including tuna, mackerel and salmon are healthy for the brain and can keep memory sharp. Additionally, the EPA found that fatty fish such as salmon can decrease inflammation, a possible cause for Alzheimer's disease. Eat fish two to three times per week in order to benefit your brain.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a healthy, unsaturated fat. The Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation recommends that 20 percent of the calories in your diet come from healthy fats such as olive oil in order to help prevent Alzheimer's. The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation states that healthy fats may improve the functions and health of the brain.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a super food, that is, they are rich in nutrients such as antioxidants that can decrease your risk of Alzheimer's and other diseases, according to the Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation. Blueberries contain the antioxidants vitamin E and C as well as many other nutrients that can help to decrease damage caused by free radicals. Less free radical damage may mean slower aging and less memory loss.
Spinach
According to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation, a study conducted by Columbia University found that people who ate Mediterranean diets rich in vegetables were less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those who ate diets low in vegetables and fruits, and high in meats. Plant foods such as spinach can reduce inflammation that decreases brain function. The Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation states that, because it has so many vitamins and minerals, spinach is also a super food.
Supplements
While a healthy diet can decrease Alzheimer's risk, no one eats a perfect diet. We may not get enough of all of the nutrients our body needs every day. For that reason, the Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation recommends taking vitamin and mineral supplements daily. They recommend taking the antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin E daily along with Coenzyme Q10 for memory function.
References
- Eating Fish Boosts Brain Health. The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation .
- Mediterranean Diet and Exercise May Lower Your Risk of Alzheimer's: The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation.
- Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation. The 4 Pillars of Alzheimer's Prevention.
