The Caring Corner®
The Caring Corner – The Best Diet to Ward Off Dementia
Dementia is a growing problem in the United States and around the world, with over 5 million Americans currently living with the condition. But did you know that there are certain dietary guidelines that can help reduce your risk of developing dementia? In particular, a nutrient-rich diet known as the Mediterranean diet has been linked to lower rates of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
What is the Mediterranean Diet?
The Mediterranean diet is an eating plan based on traditional foods eaten by people living in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It focuses on plenty of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, fish and other seafood, nuts and seeds, herbs and spices, dairy products (primarily yogurt and cheese), and healthy fats from olive oil. Processed foods and red meat are limited or avoided altogether.
Why Should I Follow It?
The main reason for following the Mediterranean diet is its potential for preventing dementia. Studies have shown that people who follow this type of eating plan have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those who don’t. This may be due to the fact that following this kind of diet increases intake of essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids which have been linked to better cognitive performance and improved memory. Additionally, studies have also shown that following a Mediterranean-style eating pattern can reduce inflammation in your body which may also play a role in reducing your risk for developing dementia.
How Can I Follow The Mediterranean Diet?
If you want to start following the Mediterranean diet there are several steps you can take to make sure you’re getting all the benefits it has to offer. First, focus on adding more fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and healthy fats like olive oil into your meals as much as possible while limiting or avoiding processed foods or red meat altogether. Try to incorporate fish into at least two meals per week since it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are important for brain health. Finally, make sure you’re getting adequate amounts of vitamins B12 and D which have both been linked to reduced risks for dementia as well as overall better cognitive function.
There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to preventing dementia but following the Mediterranean diet has been linked to lower risks for Alzheimer’s disease among those who adhere closely to its guidelines. By focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables along with lean proteins like fish or seafood plus moderate amounts of dairy products such as yogurt or cheese you can make sure you’re getting all the essential nutrients needed for optimal brain health while avoiding processed foods or red meats which could increase your risk for dementia in later life. So why not give the Mediterranean diet a try today? You never know – it just might help keep your mind sharp!
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