Foods to Fight Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent type of dementia that impacts memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms tend to include memory loss, poor judgment, wandering, impulse control issues, mood changes, and sometimes speech and communication. While there is no surefire way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, supporting your cognitive health by consuming brain boosting foods can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease as well as improve your overall mental health and wellness.
The following foods are considered “superfoods” when it comes to supporting brain health and preventing Alzheimer’s disease:
1. Fatty fish
Fatty fish contains omega 3 fatty acids or DHA, one of the most supportive fatty acids for brain health. Studies have shown that consuming 200 mg of DHA per day can boost your brain health. However, researchers have found that most people only take in about 80 mg of DHA per day. In addition to eating fatty fish, you can also take an omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
2. Coffee
Coffee can do a lot more than just perk you up in the morning. It can help fight Alzheimer’s disease. There was a study done that showed that people who drink three to five cups of coffee per day are 65 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers do not know exactly how coffee protects against Alzheimer’s disease. However, they do believe that coffee has neuroprotective effects.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries can fight free radical damage. They also have antioxidants that can improve brain health. Additionally, they have vitamins that can reduce inflammation. You can add blueberries to your smoothies and oatmeal. You can also eat as a snack.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that is used to add flavor to your foods. It can also be used to improve your health and reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Turmeric has the ability to remove the plaque that has a tendency to build up in your brain. Plaque buildup can lead to cognitive impairment.
5. Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are filled with zinc, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin E and choline. All of those nutrients have been shown to reduce cognitive decline. You can snack on the pumpkin seeds by themselves. You can also put them in your desserts or salads. Additionally, you can add them to your smoothies.
6. Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the best vegetables that you can eat if you are trying to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. They are high in B vitamins and carotenoids. They can lower the amount of homocysteine in the body. If you have higher levels of homocysteine in your body, then you are more likely to suffer cognitive decline. It can also protect you from brain atrophy. You can eat the broccoli raw. However, it is best for you to cook the broccoli because you will preserve the antioxidants.