Can your diet really help prevent Alzheimer’s disease?
Many scientists believe that Alzheimer’s disease, as well as other forms of dementia, are caused by a combination of lifestyle choices, including diet and exercise, environmental factors and genetics. That’s why our memory care specialists in Durham went over a couple of foods that may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease in our latest blog. Today, we will be finishing up our blog series with the last few foods that could prevent Alzheimer’s disease:
#5. Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, bok choy, cauliflower, kale and brussel sprouts are all cruciferous vegetables, and they all contain one very important thing that could prevent Alzheimer’s disease, carotenoids. Studies have shown that carotenoids help to lower homocysteine, which is an amino acid that has been associated with cognitive impairment.
#6. Legumes
Legumes, like beans and lentils, contain a powerful combination of iron, folate, potassium and magnesium that aids in neuron firing, as well as body function in general. Legumes are also a good source for choline, which is a B vitamin that boost the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is essential for brain function.
#7. Dark Chocolate
Although you probably don’t need another reason to eat dark chocolate, you’ll be glad to know that it contains flavonoids, which not only combat heart disease, but have also been shown to slow down the harmful effects of dementia. A study that was conducted in Italy monitored older adults who had early symptoms of dementia, and it found that those who consumed higher amount of flavonoids performed better on cognitive tests. Aim for dark chocolate that has a cocoa content of 70% or more.
