what is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease in which abnormal chemicals accumulate, responsible for the progressive deterioration of memory and intellectual ability.
It is a neurodegenerative disease that causes brain damage. Irreversible damage leads to a decrease in cognitive functions; which is used to process information and behavioral functions as the disease progresses.
Alzheimer’s can cause even more fear than cancer. One in three people over 80 will suffer. However, eating well can help reduce the risk of illness or even delay its onset.
Foods for Alzheimer’s Disease
Green leafy vegetables
The MIND diet includes frequent consumption of green leafy vegetables. Kale, spinach, broccoli, kale greens; and other green vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C and other nutrients.
Having at least two servings a week can help. Researchers have found that six or more servings per week are most beneficial for the brain.
Mediterranean diets do not recommend these vegetables. However, the MIND study found that adding green vegetables along with other vegetables can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Other vegetables
Like other diets aimed at weight loss and heart health, the MIND diet emphasizes the importance of vegetables for brain health.
Researchers recommend eating a salad and at least one other vegetable daily to lower your risk of Alzheimer’s.
Coenzyme Q10
This coenzyme is needed to transform and energize every cell and helps to increase their lifespan by slowing down aging.
Indeed, coenzyme Q10 can neutralize free radicals due to its antioxidant power.
There are certain foods that help us produce it naturally, such as dried fruit, kale, or spinach. You can also take supplements for at least three months.
Fatty fish, nuts and olive oil
According to recent research, these foods may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Just one serving of salmon, herring or albacore per week will be enough to delay cognitive decline by 10%.
Fish are said to be effective because they contain omega-3s, especially DHA, which is not surprising since the latter plays an important role in normal brain development.
Plus, all omega-3s like those found in common walnuts, flaxseed and olive oil fight inflammation; which is known to promote the formation of amyloid.
Recipe: At least one serving of fatty fish per week; plus a few tablespoons of walnuts, olive oil, or flax seeds.
You can also read: Healthy Heart: 5 Secrets, Nutrition Tips for Heart Health.