Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk With The MIND Diet

Residents in Memory Care communities like Crystal Creek, often consider standard medical treatments like therapy as ways to help lighten the load of disorders like Alzheimer’s and dementia. One area of care for these issues that most people don’t consider is the diet. By utilizing the MIND Diet and paying attention what your loved one consumes, you may, in fact be promoting positive mental health.

What is the MIND Diet?

The MIND Diet stands for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. Martha Clare Morris, an epidemiologist developed this nutritional plan through studies with the aim of lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This is meant to be done with the ingestion of brain-healthy foods, limits on unhealthy fats, and limits on red meats.

The nutritional aspect of this diet stems from the DASH diet that is aimed to ease the effects of hypertension with lower sodium intake and whole, natural foods.

The Benefits of the Mind Diet

The main purpose of the MIND diet is to reduce the risk and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. According to studies from Morris, the longer that a person followed this specific diet, the less risk they had from developing the disease. These studies were published in The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association (2015).

Not only does the diet aid in the prevention of neurological disease, but it also has positive side effects that help dieters lose weight, lower cholesterol, and control blood pressure at normal levels.

What Can You Eat?

All of the benefits are positive, but the real question lies in what a person should be eating on the MIND diet.

Leafy Greens

Much like any healthy diet, frequent servings of leafy green vegetables are required. By eating these veggies, your loved one is able to enjoy foods packed with essential vitamins A and C. Some of these recommended vegetables include:

• Kale,
• Spinach,
• And Broccoli.

It is also recommended that people on the MIND diet also consume at least one other type of vegetable per day.

Nuts

Nuts are essential for brain health. Full of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, they also assist in lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease. Nuts should be consumed in moderation at least five times a week on the MIND diet.

Berries

While all fruits are essentially good for a well-balanced diet, berries, in particular, are recommended on the MIND diet. Studies have shown that blueberries and strawberries have shown benefits on cognitive function and should be eaten at least twice a week.

Fish

Not only does a healthy portion of fish give you the protein needed to be energized throughout the day, but it also protects your brain function.

What Foods Should Be Avoided?

Although there are many foods that are helpful to those following the MIND diet, there is a short-list of foods that should be strictly avoided. These foods include:

• Red meat,
• Fast food,
• Fried food,
• Cheese,
• Sugars,
• And butter.

Dietary and Mental Health Go Hand-In-Hand with Memory Care at Cornerstone Communities

In order to live healthy, one has to eat healthy. The experienced staff at Cornerstone Memory Care communities understands this and ensures that your loved one will have any specific dietary needs met. Contact us today to find out more about our services, locations, and how to schedule your personal visit.