A healthy diet is necessary for individuals in all stages of life. A balanced diet optimizes and fuels the body throughout the long hours of the day. Diet becomes even more important as a person ages, especially after the onset of a disease like Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that devastates memory and thinking skills according to the National Institute of Aging (NIA). The slow but progressive disease is the most common cause of dementia and is usually detected in seniors. Though the disease is irreversible, it is important to maintain a healthy diet to combat its onset or progression.
So, what do you eat to combat Alzheimer’s disease? According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), researchers have found that a Mediterranean diet slows down changes in the brain which leads to Alzheimer’s disease. The Mediterranean diet is a blend of traditional Mediterranean-style cooking with healthy eating recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Components of the Mediterranean diet:
- Fish, poultry, and eggs
- Healthy fats (olive oil)
- Beans, legumes, and whole grains
- Fruits and vegetables daily
- A light amount of dairy products
- Little to no red meat
The meals are primarily plant based and are intended to be shared with friends and family.
Though more research is needed, results have been promising. Give the Mediterranean diet a try but first, consult your doctor. By practicing healthy eating and preparing balanced meals you can take charge of your life in order to live your best senior lifestyle!
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