Anti-inflammatory diets, such as the Mediterranean and MIND diets, may help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. They may also reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s in people who do not have the disease.
Alzheimer’s disease is
Diet is a risk factor over which you can have more control. Some eating habits may reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s. For people living with the disease, these eating habits can slow the progression of the disease.
The diet also helps manage heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Here’s what we know about how diet can play a role in preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
People with Alzheimer’s disease have small pieces of protein called beta-amyloid in their brains. As they accumulate, they can form clumps that interfere with regular communication in the brain.
Researchers have found several ways that diet can reduce the amount of beta-amyloid in the brain.
Inflammation causes beta-amyloid levels to rise. Anti-inflammatory eating patterns
An anti-inflammatory diet may also help manage other conditions associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Experts predict that
Compared to people without type 2 diabetes, people with type 2 diabetes
Many studies have investigated which foods and eating habits may be most beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease. For example, some
There is good evidence so far for the Mediterranean diet and the MIND diet.
Mediterranean diet
Research links the Mediterranean diet to a reduced risk of many chronic diseases. It is rich in anti-inflammatory foods, including healthy fats and antioxidants.
MIND diet
The Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet combines elements of both the Mediterranean and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets. Research has been done before
Researchers took a closer look at which foods might be most protective against Alzheimer’s disease and developed the MIND diet.
Based on
These are the foods most associated with reduced rates of Alzheimer’s disease and slowing the progression of the disease.
Researchers also note that some foods are a
These foods are sources of saturated fat and sugar, which can increase inflammation in the brain and body. You should limit or avoid these foods as part of the MIND diet.
Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition that involves several risk factors. Dietary patterns may be just part of reducing your risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
There is strong evidence to support the Mediterranean and MIND diets as part of preventing Alzheimer’s.
Although results are mixed depending on the population studied, one study showed that:
It was observed that the rate of Alzheimer’s development was reduced by 53% in people who followed the MIND eating pattern most closely. Even people who followed the MIND diet moderately experienced benefits and their risk was reduced by 35%.
What is the number one food that fights dementia?
There is no single or “best” food for fighting dementia. Eating habits that include a variety of anti-inflammatory foods may help prevent or slow dementia. These include leafy greens, nuts, fruits, whole grains, beans and olive oil.
What is the only fruit that can prevent dementia?
Researchers involved in the development of the MIND diet found that fruits are the most protective for the brain. Many studies suggest that berries are the most beneficial for brain health. Blueberries, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries are rich in antioxidants.
What is soft nutrition for people with dementia?
A soft diet includes a variety of soft foods. This may be a safer way to eat for some people with dementia and may reduce the risk of choking. For people who have difficulty swallowing, soft foods are easier to chew and swallow.
Examples of soft foods include cooked vegetables, soft fruits, ground meat, fish, yoghurt, soups and oatmeal.
Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition with many risk factors. Diet is a modifiable risk factor. Several studies have shown that Mediterranean and MIND diets may help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease or reduce your risk.
These eating patterns include plenty of anti-inflammatory foods. They are also associated with lower levels of beta-amyloid in the brain and may help manage other conditions that increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.