These food choices may help prevent Alzheimer's and Dementia
The food choices you make at any age may help prevent Alzheimer's disease. When I first read that I didn't may much attention. There are so many articles and studies out there on eating for health. But as I researched it further, it became clear that it is not only worthy of attention, it is actually essential. It also brought back to mind how and what we are meant to eat.
Society today, at least here in America, has switched to ease and convenience in so many aspects of our lives. That includes the food we eat. Boxed, pre-cooked, frozen, diet--think how much space it all takes in our grocery stores. Yet the best things for our body and our brain are the natural ones. And we all know that I bet. It's still so easy to grab something pre-made at times. If we are going to make an effort, it might take a little more planning ahead, but once we get back in the habit, it can be very easy to prepare and eat healthier. And the results might just amaze you.
After reviewing a ton of different charts and lists, I've compiled the top foods that are most recommended for brain health. I'll list the runners-up too, in case you want to go the whole route. In most cases I'll try to give the reason why or how they help as well.
It will be clear that these items are at the top of most lists for body health as well. Healthy blood pressure, a healthy heart, lower cholesterol, all mean better blood flow. Better blood flow helps the brain stay healthier.
Spinach Rules!
And other dark green leafy vegetables
Number One on several lists was SPINACH! If you've seen my other lens, you probably know I rather enjoy spinach. Many of the lists actually specify any among the dark green leafy vegetables, including spinach, broccoli, kale, and collard greens.
Why? These all contain vitamin E and folate, good for slowing the deterioration associated with aging, including reasoning, decision making, perception, and memory. A mere half cup of cooked spinach provides 25% of the daily recommendation of vitamin E. That's pretty easy to fit into your diet.
Folate appears to protect the brain, though scientists aren't certain why at this point. Folic acid does break down an amino acid known as 'homocysteine' in the blood. Without the folic acid, high levels of homocysteine may cause nerve cells in the brain to die. High homocysteine levels have also been linked to an increased risk for heart disease. So its importance may be in lowering those levels.