Physical ailments and health problems are very common for aging seniors, but one of the most distressing conditions is dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Stripping seniors of what is most valuable - their memories, Alzheimer’s is a heart wrenching ordeal for the whole family.
While no cure for dementia has been found, there are steps that can be taken to reduce one’s risk of developing the condition. Research has found many foods and food groups that can help in the battle against Alzheimer’s.
Food for Your Brain
1. Oily Fish - oily fish, like trout, salmon, and mackerel are great sources of the essential fatty acid omega-3, which the body cannot produce by itself. EPA and DHA occur naturally in fatty fish and are easily absorbed by the body and help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss.
2. Blueberries – a powerful brain food, blueberries are full of potent antioxidants that help protect brain health. Research on the cognitive benefits of blueberries have found that blueberry consumption can improve memory and postpone the cognitive decline associated with aging.
3. Broccoli – a power food for multiple functions of the body, the cognitive benefit of broccoli comes from the high levels of vitamin K. Vitamin K has been found to increase cognitive functioning and enhance brain power. Most of the U.S. population is vitamin K deficient, which risks overall health, as well as brain health.
4. Walnuts – nuts (walnuts specifically) are suggested eating for those looking to improve their brain health. Nuts are high in Vitamin E, which has been found to help prevent cognitive decline, especially among the elderly.
5. Tomatoes – widely available and incredibly versatile, tomatoes are a fantastic brain food. Tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene, a power antioxidant. The lycopene protects brains cells from free radical damage, which can cause dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
6. Spinach – another great source of vitamin K, spinach contains high levels of iron, which is essential for memory, concentration, and mental functioning. Spinach is a “one-two punch” brain food!
7. Citrus Fruits – fruits like oranges, grapefruits, limes, and lemons all contain high levels of vitamin C, as well as antioxidants, which help sharpen the memory and protect again cellular damage in the brain. A glass of orange juice in the morning can go a long way toward boosting your brain health.
8. Carrots – these crunchy vegetables are a fantastic source of beta-carotene, which helps protect brain tissues from a variety of toxins that enter the body. Fight against cognitive decline with carrots!
