It’s widely known that a healthy balanced diet can help lower the risks of various diseases, but the question remains whether it can actually influence the brain. Based on new studies, the answer appears to be yes as it could be possible in preventing the onset of cognitive problems like Alzheimer’s. Here’s what we found in good nutrition to prevent dementia.
Nutritional Intervention Ideal in Prevention of Dementia
New studies released have shown a different focus on the possible dietary types. Foods that are high in omega-4 fatty acids are proven to help prevent the onset of memory problems as it is able to influence anti-inflammatory, anti-tau, and anti-amyloid actions in the brain. Overall, it was found that people who have high levels of omega-3 fatty acid exhibited an improved blood flow within some specific areas of the brain. Through these, it’s been validated that a clear interdependence exists between the blood flow within the brain and the intake level of omega-3 fatty acids.
How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Impacts our Neural Health
As mentioned, the current studies done prove the positive benefits of omega-3 fatty acids on our neural and cardiovascular health. Blood flow in this aspect is a crucial area of interest as the brain and heart are very much interconnected; what’s beneficial for our heart is typically also beneficial for our brain. Since there is a correlation between the level of omega-3 fatty acids and the rate of blood flow in our brain, here are some ways omega-3 fatty acids can help protect your overall health as well as your brain:
- The fatty acids are important in the preservation of the blood-brain barrier – essential for reducing the risk of exposure to pathogens, bacteria, and toxins
- Can act as precursors for anit-inflammatory signaling molecules, which aids in maintaining the balance of the high levels of omega-6 consumption
- Can influence synaptic function and cognitive function through plasma membrane fluidity
Types of Foods that Have Positive Effect on Neural Health
Berries contain a high concentration of flavonoids, which are proven to enhance cognitive abilities and memory in aging adults.
Whole grains that contain the whole grain seed, which includes the outer bran layer, endosperm, and germ layers are especially useful in providing high levels of protein, minerals, fat and essential vitamins.
Green leafy vegetables such as mustard greens, collard greens, spinach, and kale provide a variety of nutrients, of which vitamin K, in particular, plays an important role in the functioning of the brain. In an evaluation of the eating habits of over 900 aging adults, it is shown that a single serving of green vegetables daily over five years, can help to prevent the development of dementia.
Eat and Live Healthily at Discovery Village At Stuart
At Discovery Village At Stuart, our Sensations Dining program ensures our residents have senior-specific meals that are both nutritious and tasty, prepared by our professional chefs on a daily basis. Even if you have certain dietary requirements or restrictions, let us know and our chefs will be able to accommodate accordingly.
Additionally, we have a diverse range of senior living amenities that will enable our residents to live with comfort, convenience, and health in our retirement community. Do contact us today.
